Caring for Your Dentures: Do’s and Don’ts

Dentures provide an accessible opportunity for people to enjoy full arches of teeth, but caring for dentures takes extra time. While denture care does not have to be complicated, caring for your dentures does mean knowing what to do and what to avoid.

Taking care of dentures the right way

Denture care can be broken down into two categories: things that should be done regularly and things that should not be done. Proper care will ensure that one’s dentures last as long as possible.

What to do

When taking care of dentures, be sure to do the following.

• Store the set in water: Dentures can lose their shape and fit if they are stored dry.
• Brush the dentures: A soft brush with denture-safe cleaner can keep bacterial buildup from forming.
• Follow adhesive instructions: If the patient requires adhesive to help the dentures cling to the dental arch, they should follow the directions for the best results.
• Keep a towel on the counter: Dropping dentures can damage them, so keep a towel nearby when cleaning or maintaining the dentures.
• Rinse them thoroughly: Dentures typically soak overnight in a specialized solution meant to clean them. Rinse the dentures before wearing them to avoid ingesting this solution.

A dentist can advise patients on the most effective methods of taking care of their customized dentures based on what they are made of and whether they are full or partial installations. Individuals who notice potential damage or problems with their dentures while caring for them should contact the dentist rather than wear them, even if they still seem to function.

What not to do

While caring for dentures is a simple task overall, certain things can cause more harm than good.

• Do not use hot water: Dentures are custom fitted to suit the dental arch of each patient. Hot water can warp them, interfering with their snug fit and performance.
• Do not use too much adhesive: When adhesive is necessary, use no more than a few pea-sized dots. Too much can expose the person to excess zinc, which may have other health consequences.
• Do not deal with pain: Dentures that fit poorly or cause rubbing indicate that a new set needs to be fabricated because the current prosthetic either has become damaged or is beyond its usable life. Patients do not need to deal with pain and oral injuries as an alternative to getting new dentures.
• Do not use abrasive toothpaste: Brushing dentures is vital for keeping them in good condition, but avoid toothpaste not specifically made for these appliances. Other types of toothpaste can contain abrasives that may scratch or damage the dentures or change their shade.
• Do not leave adhesive on the dentures: Be sure to fully brush off any remaining adhesive. This encourages a better seal during the next application and avoids overexposure to adhesive zinc.