If you wear dentures, cleaning them is just as important as brushing natural teeth. At Priest Dental in Ashland, Ohio, Dr. Kevin Priest, DDS, MA, FAGD, and the rest of our team understand how properly caring for your dentures keeps your mouth comfortable and healthy.
The Health Impact of Skipping Denture Care
Neglecting denture hygiene can lead to more than just bad breath. Here’s what you might risk without regular cleaning:
- Irritated gums or sore spots from trapped debris
- Oral infections like thrush (a common fungal issue in denture wearers)
- Stomatitis, or inflammation of the tissue under the denture
- Persistent odors and unpleasant taste
- Faster wear and staining of the denture material
- Bone loss from ongoing inflammation and poor fit
Daily Denture Cleaning Tips
Always remove your dentures and rinse them after meals to wash away food particles. At least once a day, brush them gently with a soft-bristled brush using a nonabrasive denture cleanser. Toothpaste is too abrasive for most dentures and can create tiny scratches that trap bacteria.
You should also clean your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush or gauze. This helps prevent plaque buildup and stimulates circulation in the tissues that support your dentures.
Be careful not to bend any plastic or metal components while cleaning. Holding dentures over a folded towel or a sink filled with water can help prevent damage if you drop them.
Overnight Storage and Soaking
Dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. Each night, soak them in plain water or a mild denture-soaking solution, unless your dentist gives you other instructions. Avoid using hot water, which can warp their structure.
Make sure to rinse thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth, especially if you use a cleaning solution that contains chemicals not meant to be ingested.
When to See Your Dentist
Even with good care, dentures may need adjustments over time. If they start to feel loose, cause sore spots, or develop stains or odors that don’t go away with cleaning, schedule a visit. Regular dental exams will keep your mouth healthy and help us make sure your dentures fit properly.
Call Priest Dental Today
To get a professional cleaning or denture adjustment, contact Priest Dental in Ashland. Call 419-289-1813 to schedule your appointment with our team.
