How to Clean Your Dentures
After receiving your dentures in Charleston, they should be brushed daily like your normal teeth. Removing food and plaque after each meal can ensure that your dentures maintain their look and feel for as long as possible. To clean your dentures:
- Start by thoroughly rinsing off food and other particles. Do not use boiling or hot water, as this can warp your dentures. Some patients choose to fill the sink with water or a towel during cleanings to prevent damaging their dentures if they fall.
- Gently brush the entire denture with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Do not use a hard-bristle brush, as this can scratch the dentures and cause bacteria to get trapped in the crevices, causing denture odor.
- Do not use whitening toothpaste or an abrasive toothpaste, as these contain powerful levels of peroxide that may damage your dentures without whitening them. Instead, use a denture cleanser.
- Brush your own teeth, gums, and the inside of your mouth to remove plaque accumulated throughout the day.
Be gentle when handling your dentures during cleaning. Do not bend the plastic or attempt to modify any of the metal clasps, as this can affect the fit of your dentures and cause irreparable damage. With proper care and maintenance, most dentures can last five to seven years without needing replacement.
