After a long day, the last thing many people want to do is more work. Thankfully, things like folding laundry, doing dishes, and cleaning up after the kids can wait until morning. But what about when you wear dentures? While it’s true that false teeth can’t get cavities, they should still be removed, cleaned, and soaked in water before you hit the hay. Here’s why although it may be tempting to leave your prosthetics in place in your mouth or set them on the counter and deal with them in the morning, taking care of them the right way will keep them and your mouth in excellent condition!
Keep it Clean
Much like real teeth, dentures can become dirty and coated in biofilm during everyday use. That’s why your dentist recommends removing them and brushing them completely after each meal. This will not only scrub away small food particles, but it will also prevent bacteria from colonizing in between the prosthetic teeth and the gum-like ridges of the denture plate. Not to mention they will look, feel, and smell better for your efforts.
Bedtime Care
If you aren’t already, you should be removing your dentures every night before you go to sleep. Dentures were not meant to be worn 24/7. In fact, taking them out is better for both you and your prosthetic. It allows your gums to rest and absorb nutrients and prevents infection and painful sores from forming on your soft tissues.
Similarly, removing your dentures is good for the prosthetics, too. Cleaning them completely and soaking them prevents biofilm from forming on them and submerging them in water after they’ve been tidied up also keeps them from drying out. This is important, because if they don’t stay hydrated, your dentures can become warped and cracked, changing their fit, and creating crevices for harmful oral bacteria and bits of food to become trapped. This can increase your risk of infection, bad breath, and permanent denture odor. Worse yet, these tiny fractures can cut your gums and soft tissue, leading to painful injuries and mouth sores.
Denture Cleaning Tips
The great news is that keeping your dentures clean and hydrated is easier than you might think. Here are some recommended care tips from your dentist:
- First, line your countertop with a towel, and fill your sink with water. This will help cushion the fall if you accidentally drop your dentures while cleaning them.
- Next, remove your false teeth completely, and gently scrub them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild hand soap or denture cleanser.
- Floss between each tooth.
- Rinse your dentures well to remove all the soap and particles of debris.
- If you are heading to bed, gently place your dentures in a glass of water or denture soak so they are fully submerged and leave them there until you are ready to wear them again.
- When it’s time to put your prosthetics back in, be sure to rinse them well one more time before inserting them in your mouth.
Remember, although it’s understandable to be exhausted after a long day, taking a few minutes to care for your smile is essential to help keep your mouth and your dentures looking and feeling their best. Thus, be sure to remove your prosthetics for cleaning after each meal and soak them overnight so they don’t become irreparably damaged due to dehydration while you’re sleeping.
About Our Practice
At Grateful Dentists, Dr. Danzig and Dr. Snook want to help ensure that your smile lasts as long as possible. That’s why they’re dedicated to teaching you how to care for your teeth and gums, whether they’re the ones you were born with or prosthetics. If you’re ready to restore your smile with the help of a dynamic new pair of dentures, schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website or call us directly at 978-667-5807.