How do you care for a denture?
Dentures may replace all or some of your teeth. Irrespective of the type of denture you have, all dentures are fantastic plaque, bacteria and food traps. Food feed bacteria and if you have any teeth remaining predisposes those teeth to further decay and possible further tooth loss.
Remove and brush the denture daily with a denture cleanser and a brush (one specifically designed for cleaning dentures or a soft toothbrush). Physical cleaning with a brush is preferred over the use of bubbling powders like Steradent®.
Avoid using boiling water to sterilize the denture, because hot water can cause the denture to lose its shape.
- If you wear a partial denture, remove it before brushing your natural teeth.
- When you’re not wearing the denture, soak it in denture cleanser or water.
- To avoid misplacing your denture, store it in the same place after removal.
Denture materials are porous materials despite looking solid. It is recommended that complete dentures be soaked once a week overnight in Milton’s Bleach diluted with water (1 part bleach 8 parts water). Ensure that the denture is well rinsed before placing it back in the mouth. The diluted bleach mix soaks into the denture destroying bacteria and fungi that may lead to gum and tissue irritation over time.
Your dentist should be able to provide you with a customised denture care programme.
