Keeping your dentures clean is one of the most important steps to protect your oral health. Whether you’re new to wearing dentures or have had them for years, understanding how to clean them properly can prevent bad breath, infections, and damage.
The good news? Cleaning dentures doesn’t have to be complicated.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean your dentures, what products to use, and answer some of the most common questions denture wearers have.
How to Clean My Dentures (Simple Steps)
Cleaning your dentures daily helps remove food, plaque, and stains. Here’s a simple routine to follow:
1. Remove and rinse
Take your dentures out and rinse them with warm water after meals. This helps remove loose food and debris.
2. Brush your dentures
Use a soft-bristled brush or a special denture brush. Gently brush all surfaces of the dentures, including the grooves that touch your gums.
3. Use a denture cleaner
Avoid regular toothpaste—it can be too abrasive. Instead, use a cleaner made specifically for dentures.
4. Soak overnight
Most dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. Soak them overnight in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water.
5. Rinse before wearing
Always rinse dentures thoroughly in the morning before putting them back in your mouth.
These easy steps can keep your dentures looking and feeling their best.
What Can I Use to Clean My Dentures?
There are a few different products and methods you can use to keep your dentures fresh and clean.
Cleaners for dentures
- Denture cleaning tablets: Drop one in a glass of water and soak your dentures. These tablets help remove stains and kill bacteria.
- Denture paste: A non-abrasive paste made for dentures can be used with a soft brush to clean them gently.
- Mild dish soap: Some people use a tiny amount of gentle dish soap with a soft brush. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly.
- Denture wipes: Good for on-the-go cleaning, but not a replacement for soaking or brushing.
Avoid using household cleaners or whitening toothpaste, as they can damage the material of your dentures.
Common Questions
Even with a good routine, questions often come up. Here are answers to some of the most common ones:
Will baking soda remove plaque from dentures?
Yes, baking soda can help remove light stains and reduce plaque. However, it should be used gently and not as a daily method. Mix a small amount with water to form a paste and brush gently. Don’t scrub too hard—baking soda is slightly abrasive and could wear down the denture surface over time.
How to get chewing gum off dentures
If gum sticks to your dentures, place them in the freezer for a few minutes. Once the gum hardens, you can gently peel or scrape it off with your fingers or a soft brush. Avoid sharp objects that could scratch or damage the dentures.
Can you use bleach on dentures?
It’s not recommended to use bleach on your dentures. While it may kill bacteria, bleach can weaken the structure of the dentures and discolor the pink areas that mimic gum tissue. If you need something stronger for deep cleaning, use products specifically labeled for dentures.
Because Your Smile Deserves a Perfect Fit
If you’re having trouble keeping your dentures clean or they’re not fitting the way they used to, it might be time to see a dentist. At Somos Dental, you can get the most affordable dental care in the region, including help with dentures, adjustments, and professional cleanings.
Stop by one of our clinics in Phoenix or Dallas:
Phoenix:
Dentures feeling loose or hard to clean?
Call 623-869-1091 or book a FREE CONSULTATION online. Chat with us anytime via WhatsApp, Messenger, or SMS.
Keeping your dentures clean doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and a few minutes each day, you can protect your oral health and keep your smile fresh.
Remember to handle your dentures with care, avoid harsh chemicals, and don’t hesitate to contact a dental professional if you need support.
If cleaning your dentures
isn’t enough,
we’re here to help
