Dentures NQ

Which cleaners should I avoid?

It is important not to use any type of bleaching product, ammonia based cleaners, abrasives or very hot water to clean your dentures. Bleaching can lead to a weakening of the denture and will damage its appearance. The use of ammonia or abrasives will remove the glossy surface allowing stains to build up whilst very hot water can distort your denture thereby affecting the fit.

How often should I clean my dentures?

It is important to treat your dentures as you should treat your natural teeth. They must be kept as clean as possible to prevent inflamed gums, bacterial and fungal infections or further tooth loss. Your dental prosthetist recommends that you clean your dentures as you would your natural teeth, twice a day, and after eating when necessary. Always remove your denture for cleaning and ensure you also brush your gums to stimulate blood circulation.

My dentures are stained, what can I do?

Like natural teeth, dentures are vulnerable to staining by everyday habits. This is especially true if you smoke or drink a lot of tea, coffee or red wine. In most cases, you should be able to remove this staining with regular cleaning. More stubborn stains may take a little more cleaning and your dental prosthetist is happy to provide advice to help you.

How do I care for a soft lining?

People who have sensitive gums may have a resilient softer lining made for their dentures. If you have one of these special linings, your dental prosthetists will provide individual aftercare advice to make sure you are aware of what cleaning products or fixatives you can use.

How do I care for a metal denture?

Some commercial cleaning products can damage metal dentures. Most cleaning products have warnings on them but never use bleach or Milton solution. If you have a metal denture, it is more important to discuss cleaning options with your dental prosthetist. If your acrylic denture has metal clasps, you need to take particular care when cleaning.

Can my dental prosthetists clean my dentures?

Some people experience plaque build-up on their dentures just as they would on their natural teeth. If plaque is not removed properly, it can react with your saliva and harden into tartar. As with your own teeth, you will not be able to remove this tartar completely yourself and eventually it can make the denture uncomfortable and unsightly. Your dental prosthetists can remove this tartar in their laboratory using a professional cleaning machine.

What is the best way to clean my dentures?

The general rule is to always rely on a soaking solution and brush softly with a specially designed soft denture brush. Always clean your dentures over a bowl of water or a folded towel in case you drop them. Rinse your dentures thoroughly before soaking to help remove any food debris. Using an effervescent (fizzy) denture cleaner will help remove stubborn stains and leave your denture feeling fresher.

Which cleaners should I use?

There are many different denture cleaning products available direct from your dental prosthetist or at most grocery stores or chemists. Your dental prosthetist recommends the use of an effective denture cleaning solution, such as denture toothpaste. Look for one that contains active ingredients to break down the plaque, removing the debris as opposed to some cleaners that merely bleach the stains without removing them.

Are there any special products I should use?

There are some specialist products available for cleaning your dentures, including special brushes, baths, cleaning pastes and soaking solutions. However, you should use these carefully and follow the manufacturer's instructions. If you are not, sure which products to use ask your dental prosthetist.

Should I remove my dentures at night?

Your dental prosthetist recommends removing your dentures at least twice a day to allow massaging of the gums, encouraging adequate blood flow to that tissue. However, we appreciate that you may not wish to leave your dentures out for extended periods, so during your cleaning routines simply brush the gums with a soft toothbrush. If you do remove your dentures overnight, your dental prosthetists suggest that you leave them in water to prevent any warping or cracking.