Dentures, whether partial or full, are removable prosthetic devices that require daily brushing for maintenance. Made typically from acrylic resin, dentures accumulate plaque, food particles, and bacteria daily, just like natural teeth. Brushing is mandatory to remove this debris, prevent staining, and control bad breath caused by microorganism buildup. A proper cleaning routine maintains the appliance’s integrity and protects the health of the underlying gum tissues.
Selecting Safe Brushes and Cleansers
The composition of dentures requires selecting specialized, non-abrasive cleaning products to avoid damaging the acrylic surface. Standard toothpastes contain abrasive materials, such as silica, that create microscopic scratches on the softer denture surface. These tiny grooves become ideal hiding spots where bacteria and fungi thrive, leading to discoloration and odor. Use a dedicated non-abrasive denture paste, mild hand soap, or dish soap instead of regular toothpaste.
A soft-bristled tool is necessary to prevent scratching the appliance. Specialized denture brushes are often recommended because they feature a dual-head design. One side has flat, soft bristles for cleaning the main surfaces, and the other has a tapered, angled head for reaching hard-to-access areas like the inner surface and grooves. A regular toothbrush is an acceptable alternative only if it has very soft bristles.
Step-by-Step Brushing Technique
Before cleaning, take precautions to prevent accidental damage to the appliance. Dentures are fragile and can easily crack or break if dropped onto a hard surface. To safeguard against this, place a folded towel on the counter or fill the sink basin with water before handling the prosthetic.
Rinse the denture under cool or lukewarm running water to remove loose food particles. Apply the non-abrasive cleaner to the soft bristles of the denture brush. Use short, gentle strokes to thoroughly scrub all surfaces of the prosthetic, including the outer polished surface and the chewing surfaces. Pay careful attention to the inner surface that contacts the gums and, for partial dentures, the clasps or metal components where bacteria accumulate. After comprehensive brushing, rinse the denture again under running water to ensure all cleaner residue is completely washed away before wearing.
Complete Daily Denture Care
Beyond brushing, the complete daily care routine includes supplementary steps to ensure both the denture and the mouth remain healthy. Soaking the appliance is necessary, as dentures must stay moist to retain their shape and prevent warping or cracking. Dentures should be removed and soaked for six to eight hours daily, often overnight, to give the gum tissues a chance to rest.
The soaking solution should be plain water or a commercial denture-soaking product, such as a cleansing tablet dissolved in water. Always follow the product’s instructions and never use hot or boiling water, as this can permanently warp the plastic base material. If the denture has metal attachments, avoid using solutions that contain chlorine, as these can corrode the metal components.
While the denture is removed, the mouth requires attention to maintain overall oral health. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or gauze to gently clean the gums, tongue, and palate. This cleaning action stimulates circulation in the tissues and removes any residual bacteria or adhesive.