Proper care for your removable partial or full dentures is essential to keep them clean, free from bacteria, and looking their best.
Daily Care Routine
- Rinse after eating: Run water over your dentures to remove food debris.
- Tip: Place a towel in the sink or fill it with a bit of water so your dentures won’t break if you accidentally drop them.
- Handle with care: Be careful not to bend the plastic or damage the metal clasps during cleaning.
- Clean your mouth: After removing your dentures, use a soft-bristled toothbrush on any natural teeth and a soft brush or gauze to clean your tongue, cheeks, and the roof of your mouth.
- Daily brushing: Gently brush your dentures at least once a day.
- Use a soft toothbrush and normal soap or a non-abrasive denture cleanser.
- Do not use toothpaste—it is too abrasive and can cause stains to accumulate.
- If you use adhesive, ensure you clean the grooves that fit against your gums.
Night-Time Wear & Storage
Most dentures need to remain moist to keep their shape. You have two options for overnight care:
- Soak them: Place dentures in water or a mild soaking solution overnight. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
- Wear them: Newer research suggests it is acceptable to leave dentures in overnight if they have been thoroughly cleaned first. You can choose to clean them well and place them back in, or use a disinfectant soak.
What to Avoid
To prevent damage, avoid the following:
- Abrasive Materials: Stiff-bristled brushes and harsh cleansers.
- Whitening Toothpastes: These are especially abrasive and can damage the denture surface.
- Bleach Products: These can weaken dentures and change their colour. Avoid chlorine soaks if your dentures have metal attachments, as this can cause corrosion.
- Hot Water: Avoid boiling or very hot water, as it can warp the plastic.
Professional Maintenance
Regular check-ups are vital for both your dentures and your oral health:
- If you have natural teeth: See your dentist every 6 months for a professional clean and exam.
- If you have no natural teeth: You should still visit annually to check the fit of your dentures and screen for oral cancer.
- Loose fits: See your dentist promptly if your dentures feel loose. A poor fit can cause irritation, sores, and infection.
How Long Should Removable Dentures Last?
- Plastic partials: Approx. 5 years
- Full dentures: Should be replaced or relined at least every 5 years
- Metal-based partials: Can last up to 15 years
Schedule with Your Prahran Dentist
If you have any questions or notice a change in your fit, please give us a call at Lifetime Dental or book your appointment online.
