Good denture care is important to avoid dental problems. Dentures should be removed at night to give the gums a rest and to reduce the pressure on the underlying bone. Wearing your dentures at night can severely accelerate the loss of the supporting bone. While sleeping, soak your dentures in a commercial denture cleanser such as Efferdent.
Regular denture care includes brushing your denture with a denture brush and a denture paste after eating. Toothbrushes are designed to clean natural teeth which are very hard. A regular toothbrush can cut and scratch a denture and the same is true for regular toothpastes. Regular toothpastes are too abrasive for plastic dentures. If you don't have a denture brush available, rinse your denture under lukewarm running water. Soap can be used but can often leave a terrible taste if not completely cleaned.
A dirty denture can be the source of bad breath. Food that gets trapped in the pink denture acrylic ferments and gives off a foul odor. Some foods stain denture teeth and regular denture care reduces discoloration. Unclean dentures can harbor bacteria. Recurrent yeast infections can come from contaminated dentures. To reduce yeast and bacterial infections, disinfect your dentures by soaking them in a diluted bleach solution consisting of two tablespoons of bleach in an 8 ounce glass of water.
Dentures collect plaque and form calculus (tartar) just like natural teeth. If calculus forms under a denture, it can rub the gums raw and cause the tissues to become red and inflamed. Never boil, microwave or use a dishwasher to clean your dentures. Denture plastic warps when it is overheated and this can ruin your denture. Be very careful handling your dentures. Keep your dentures in water to avoid drying out and distorting. Most dentures will break if dropped onto a hard surface. Clean and massage your gums and tongue with a regular soft-bristled toothbrush to help keep them healthy. If you are having denture problems and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky or Dr. Smith please make an appointment by calling 404-874-7428.