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Denture Blog

Why Just Brushing or Rinsing Alone Isn’t Enough To Keep Your Dentures Clean

February 3, 2022
denture care

Your dentures just might be one of the best investments you will ever make. Dentures can improve your life in so many ways. They give you back the confidence you might have been lacking due to your missing teeth. They let you enjoy the foods you’ve had to go without again and they can improve the overall health of your mouth.

Dentures can also be quite costly. To get the most out of your investment, you will want to care for them properly. On average, dentures can last you quite a while if they are well taken care of. If the care is neglected, you will likely find yourself back at the denturist getting fitted for a new pair in a short amount of time. There is some confusion when it comes to properly care for your dentures. Aside from handling them with care to avoid chips and cracks, the way you clean your dentures matters quite a bit.

Dentures that have not been cleaned properly can also compromise your oral health. Some people assume that brushing their dentures the way they brush their teeth is enough to get the job done. Others feel that since their dentures require soaking they don’t have to brush them. But, just like with your natural teeth, a complete cleaning regimen involves both brushing and rinsing (soaking) your dentures. Read on to find out why you need to implement both brushing and soaking rituals in your denture care routine.

To book an appointment with a denturist in Surrey, BC, click here.

Brushing Your Dentures

Did you know that plaque can accumulate on dentures just like it can on your natural teeth?
When plaque is built upon your natural teeth, it will eventually harden into something called tartar. That is the main culprit that can deteriorate your teeth and gums in cases of periodontal disease. Non-invasive procedures like dental cleanings, scaling and root planing remove plaque and tartar by scarping the build-up off the surface of your teeth. When tartar is left there, it leads to bacteria growth, bad breath and disease.

The same can occur for people who wear dentures. Just because your new teeth are made of porcelain doesn’t mean that they can’t be compromised from tartar buildup. Your dentures replace your natural teeth, so that means they are just as susceptible to plaque. Additionally, what you eat can leave stains on your dentures. Food bits like seeds can get lodged in between the artificial teeth if you don’t brush regularly.

To avoid scratching your dentures, always use a soft toothbrush. After brushing, dentures should be soaked in tap water overnight. Sleeping in your dentures is not advised. You may want to add a cleaning solution to your denture soak every couple of weeks.

If you take good care of your dentures, they will last you well into your golden years. To discuss your options with a denturist in Surrey, BC, click here.