You need to always ensure that your dentures are clean. Not only is it important for your personal hygiene, but it also helps to keep your dentures in excellent shape for as long as possible. Your dentist gave you instructions on how to properly care for your dentures, but you are probably wondering if there is a more efficient way. Continue reading to learn if cleaning dentures is as effective if you are still wearing them.
Can You Clean Your Dentures While You Wear Them?
You can brush your dentures while you were wearing them, but this isn’t the best way to thoroughly clean them. If you give them a quick brush while they are in your mouth, this isn’t harmful, but you won’t be able to clean all of the surfaces very well. You will still need to remove them in order to brush key areas with a soft-bristled toothbrush. In the end, it is best if you remove your dentures completely before you clean them.
How Do You Care for Dentures?
Your dentures require daily care if you want to keep them in excellent shape for a long time. Here are some steps that you should be taking:
- Remove after eating: In order to remove food debris and other particles, you need to rinse them after you finish meals.
- Keep your mouth clean: When you remove your dentures, you should clean your mouth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This includes your natural teeth, tongue, cheeks, and the roof of your mouth.
- Brush daily: Every day, you need to soak your dentures and brush them with a nonabrasive denture cleanser and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Never use denture cleansers inside your mouth.
- Soak overnight: Most of the time, dentures need to remain moist to keep their proper shape. Follow your dentist’s instructions about the type of solution you should be using and where you should keep your dentures while you sleep.
- Regular checkups: Even though they aren’t your natural teeth, you still need to head to the dentist regularly for checkups. You should also head in if your dentures become loose because you could experience issues like soreness, irritation, and infections.
While you can brush your dentures while they’re in your mouth, you still need to take them out for a more thorough cleaning. When you take all of the necessary steps to keep your dentures clean, you will be able to show off your smile for many more years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Patrick Pirkle is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over 15 years. He earned his dental doctorate from the Nova Southeastern University Dental School. Currently, he is a member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and American Society of Implant & Reconstructive Dentistry. To learn more about proper denture care or to schedule an appointment at his office in Sebastian, visit his website or call (772) 388-0088.