Caring for Dentures
What is a denture?
A denture is a removable appliance that is custom made to replace one or more missing teeth.
Dentures consist of:
· A base that rests against the gums
· Artificial teeth set into the base
The denture base is commonly made from:
· Acrylic resin (most common)
· Chrome cobalt (a metal framework)
· Nylon-based materials (such as flexible dentures)
The artificial teeth may be made from:
· Acrylic
· Porcelain
Dentures help restore appearance and function, allowing you to chew and speak more comfortably after tooth loss.
Do dentures need cleaning?
Yes. Like natural teeth, dentures collect plaque and food debris. If not cleaned properly, this can lead to:
· Gum inflammation
· Denture stomatitis (redness and soreness of the gum under a denture)
· Bad breath
· Decay in any remaining natural teeth
Even if you wear full dentures, it is still important to keep your gums and tongue clean. Good daily hygiene helps maintain comfort and prolong the life of your denture.
How should I clean my denture?
Daily routine
· Remove and rinse your denture after meals if possible
· Brush your remaining natural teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
· Clean between remaining teeth once daily
Cleaning the denture
· Remove your denture before bed and use a denture brush to clean all surfaces of the denture, including the fitting surface
· Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and scratch the surface. Scratches can make it easier for plaque and staining to build up.
After cleaning
· Store the denture in water over night
· Never allow it to dry out, as this can cause distortion
Dentures should ideally be removed overnight or at least for a few hours a day to allow your gums to rest and cleanse. Your dental professional may advise differently in specific situations.
Caring for your mouth
Even if you have no natural teeth, you should:
· Gently brush your gums with a soft toothbrush
· Clean your tongue
· Attend regular dental examinations
Your dental team will check the fit of your denture and examine your oral tissues.
When should I seek advice?
Contact your dental practice if you notice:
· Sore spots or ulcers
· A loose or unstable denture
· Cracks or damage to your denture
· Persistent bad breath
Ill-fitting dentures can cause irritation and should be reviewed.
Helpful tools for Denture Care
Tailored tools can help maintain both the denture and oral tissues.
Denture Care
A special brush with extra-long, strong filaments to ensure an efficient clean of all surfaces, without causing any damage to the denture.
Compact Tuft
If you wear a partial denture you may have awkward spaces where teeth are missing, the compact tuft allows for precision cleaning in these awkward areas.
Interspace
Used in the same way as the compact tuft for cleaning those awkward areas, but with a changeable tip to help with accessibility.