Picture this: you just had a quick lunch and are running late for a meeting. Your dentures are firmly in place in your mouth, but you need to clean them before you head to your next destination. But do you really need to take them out and brush the entire prosthetic? It would save so much time to just leave them in place, right? Here’s why even though it would be faster to cut corners, it’s important to completely remove your dentures to clean them after each meal.
The Importance of Properly Cleaning Your Dentures
When you clean your dentures, it’s not just because it’s important to keep them looking and smelling fresh. Failing to keep them pristine can increase your risk of developing mouth sores and infections that can be very painful. Thus, it is always recommended that you remove them entirely after each meal and clean every surface of the prosthetic.
How to Clean Dentures
To properly clean your dentures, follow these important steps:
- Line your sink or countertop with a towel to cushion your prosthetics if they accidentally fall.
- Fill your sink with water.
- Remove your dentures from your mouth and rinse them well with water.
- Using denture cleanser or unscented hand soap, gently scrub your entire denture using a soft bristled toothbrush.
- Floss between each tooth.
- Rinse your dentures again with water.
- If you are planning on wearing them again, you can put your dentures back in your mouth. If you are heading to bed for the evening, submerge them gently in a glass of water or denture soak so they don’t dry out.
- Before returning them to your mouth after soaking them for the evening, rinse them off once again.
Remember, while it may seem like it’s no big deal to save a few minutes and brush your dentures while they’re still in your mouth, this should never replace a full, after-meal cleaning. Keeping your dentures spotless doesn’t just make them look and smell better, it can also help prevent a variety of oral health problems and reduce the risk of damage to your prosthetics.
About Dr. Patel
Dr. Hiren Patel first graduated from the Government Dental College & Hospital in Ahmedabad, India, in 2006. He then earned a dental degree from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine in 2011. Since then, he has maintained his commitment to learning by earning over 500 hours of continuing education. If you are interested in learning more about dentures, please contact HIC Dental – Implant & Family Dentistry for a consultation. We can be reached via our website, or by calling 210-590-2736.