28 Mar Best Practices for Denture Care
If you wear dentures, you probably have a rough idea on how to care for them. Perhaps you’re following the directions of your dentist, or maybe you’ve come across a few tips online. If you’re wondering if you’re caring for your dentures correctly, if you feel like you need more than just the basics, we’ve got you!
Our patients have often asked us what their daily process should look like. The procedures for proper denture care can vary, given the type of dentures and the types of tools needed to clean them. For example, many people ask us if using a regular toothbrush is okay? Others want to know how to get rid of stains and prevent them from happening. And then there’s also the matter of gum, tongue, cheek, and palate health to consider. Let’s dig into it and get your questions answered.
Routine Denture Care: Removable Dentures
If you have removable dentures—either full or partial—you can clean them following these steps:
How to Clean Removable Dentures | |
|---|---|
Step 1: Remove | Gargle with warm water to loosen the seal, then gently pull the dentures away from your gums using a rocking motion. |
Step 2: Clean | Wipe off any adhesive with a soft, damp cloth and rinse with warm water. |
Step 3: Brush | Use a soft-bristles denture toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture paste to brush the surface and clean the grooves. |
Step 4: Soak | Place the dentures in a cup of mild soaking solution overnight. |
Step 5: Rinse & Replace | Rinse your dentures with warm water, dry them, apply the adhesive, and replace. |
This routine should prevent stains from forming on your dentures. If you have already developed stains, try following this method for a few weeks to remove any discoloration. If you don’t have the improvement you need, see a dentist to get them cleaned professionally.
NEVER use bleaching products to remove stains. You should also avoid hot water, abrasive pastes, and strong cleansers, as these things can all damage your dentures.
TIP → Even if you don’t have teeth in your mouth, you should still brush your gums every night. A good oral care routine will keep the rest of your mouth healthy and prevent gum disease. After completing the process above, brush your gums and tongue. Use mouthwash if you want to combat bad breath.
Routine Denture Care: Implant-Supported Dentures
Caring for implant supported dentures is almost exactly the same as caring for natural teeth. You will need to floss under the dentures daily, brush twice a day, and use mouthwash if recommended by your dentist.
Some patients have asked whether daily brushing and flossing is still necessary, as their dentures won’t get infected or decay. It is definitely still essential to maintain a regular oral care routine, even when you have a full set of denture implants. Brushing will prevent stains, and flossing will prevent gingivitis. If you fail to keep up with regular cleaning, you could suffer from gum disease. Gum disease, when left untreated, can lead to bone loss and consequently may cause you to lose the implant.
Expert Dental Care for Seniors with Dentures
If you have removable dentures that feel loose or don’t fit right, then you should schedule a dental exam. Your dentures may have become damaged or warped, and our dentists can adjust them for you or prepare a new set. Always see a dentist if you’re experiencing pain or prolonged discomfort. For example, if you’re clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth, there could be a problem with your dentures.
You also still need regular checkups to ensure good oral health and to make sure your dentures are fitting correctly. When you come in for an exam, we will check for a functioning bite, ensure the fit of your dentures is comfortable, screen you for any oral diseases, and professionally clean your dentures to remove any stains.
If you would like to schedule an appointment at Saba & Chiappetti Dental Associates in Sun Lakes, please give us a call at 480-895-2111 or fill out our appointment request form.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (03.17.2025). Photo by Quang Tri NGUYEN on Unsplash.