There have been quite a few advancements in denture technology since George Washington wore teeth made from ivory. Modern dentures are incredibly lifelike and should fit so comfortably that you might forget that they’re there. However, dentures still require a proper hygiene routine to stay beautiful and work well, and they can develop an unpleasant odor or lead to other oral health issues if they are not cared for sufficiently. Here are a few reasons why your dentures might not smell so great and what you can do to keep them pretty and fresh.
How Can Dentures Develop a Foul Odor?
While dentures are immune to tooth decay, they still provide ample surface area that can trap food debris and shelter the harmful oral bacteria that cause cavities, gum disease, and other oral infections. Plaque and food particles can get stuck between the artificial teeth, and a denture’s base is made out of acrylic, a material full of many tiny holes that can protect bacterial colonies. The human brain is programmed to find the smell of infectious bacteria and decaying food to be foul, so neglecting to clean your dentures sufficiently can leave them with an unpleasant odor.
How Can I Clean My Dentures Properly?
Luckily, a proper cleaning routine can keep your dentures fresh and infectious bacteria at bay. Some excellent denture habits include:
- Take your dentures out and rinse them after eating: If you’ve just had a meal or snack, remove your dentures and give them a quick rinse under running water. This can eliminate many food particles that can cause bacterial growth.
- Rinse your mouth after removing your dentures: If you’ve just removed your dentures, rinse your mouth out before replacing them to remove food particles that can cause gum disease.
- Give your dentures a daily brushing: Gently brush your dentures using a soft brush and nonabrasive denture cleaner to remove plaque, food residue, and any lingering denture adhesive. This should be done at least once a day.
- Soak your dentures every night: Your gums need eight hours away from your dentures every day to rest and clean themselves. Remove them before bed and soak them in water or an approved denture cleaner.
- Handle your dentures with care: When removing your dentures for cleaning, fill the sink with lukewarm water and place a folded towel across the countertop. This will make a cushion in case you drop them.
- Never use hot or cold water with your dentures: Sudden temperature shifts can cause your dentures to warp or break. Only use lukewarm water for cleaning or soaking.
A healthy set of dentures can give a patient the confidence they need to smile frequently at strangers and loved ones alike. Taking proper care of your dentures will keep them presentable and help them last as long as possible.
About the Author
Dr. Biju Cyriac earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the prestigious New York University College of Dentistry and stays on top of the latest developments in dentistry with continuing education classes. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. His office in York, PA offers general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as denture treatments. For more information on proper denture care, contact the office online or dial (717) 741-0893.