Tartar, also known as calculus, is a hardened deposit of dental plaque that accumulates on the surface of your false teeth. This deposit forms when the sticky film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva minerals is not regularly removed, allowing it to calcify over time. Unlike the enamel of natural teeth, the acrylic material of dentures is softer and requires specific, non-abrasive cleaning methods to remove this buildup without causing damage. The process of removing tartar involves first weakening the mineralized structure with a chemical soak before physically brushing the deposits away.
Home Removal Methods Using Soaks and Solutions
The initial and most effective step in removing tartar is to use a chemical soak that works to soften the hardened deposits. White distilled vinegar is a common household solution that is highly effective due to its acetic acid content. To use this method, mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
Submerge the dentures completely for approximately 15 to 30 minutes to allow the acid to begin dissolving the mineral buildup. For dentures that do not contain metal components, such as full acrylic plates, an overnight soak may be used for severe buildup. However, if the dentures have metal clasps or parts, avoid prolonged soaking in vinegar, as the acid can corrode the metal over time.
Commercial denture cleaning tablets offer another powerful method, using effervescent action to break down plaque and tartar. These tablets release oxygen bubbles when dissolved in water, which helps to dislodge deposits and disinfect the appliance. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for soaking time, as exceeding the recommended duration may damage the denture material. Mild bleach solutions containing sodium hypochlorite can be used for deep cleaning, but they must be properly diluted and avoided entirely for any dentures that contain metal, as the hypochlorite can quickly tarnish the alloy.
Mechanical Cleaning Techniques and Tools
Once the tartar has been adequately softened by a soaking solution, physical cleaning is necessary to lift the deposits away from the denture surface. It is helpful to use a dedicated denture brush, which is specifically designed with bristles that are firm enough to clean thoroughly but soft enough not to scratch the acrylic. A regular toothbrush is often too abrasive and should not be used, as microscopic scratches can create new areas for bacteria to accumulate.
Apply a non-abrasive cleaning agent to the wet denture brush, such as a specialized denture paste or even mild dish soap. Standard toothpaste must be avoided because it often contains abrasive ingredients like chalk or silica that will scratch the denture material. Gently scrub all surfaces of the denture, paying particular attention to the areas where the tartar was most visible, like the gum line and the inner surface.
Use short, circular strokes to work the cleaning agent into the crevices and around the artificial teeth. After brushing, rinse the dentures thoroughly under cool or lukewarm running water to remove all traces of the cleaning agent and the loosened tartar. Rinsing completely is important to ensure no chemical residue is transferred back into the mouth.
Preventing Tartar Recurrence
Maintaining a consistent daily routine is the most effective strategy for preventing new tartar from forming on your false teeth. Plaque, the precursor to hard calculus, begins to form immediately after eating, so rinsing the dentures thoroughly after every meal is important. This quick rinse removes loose food particles and prevents them from adhering to the denture material.
In addition to rinsing, the dentures should be brushed lightly at least once daily using a soft denture brush and a non-abrasive cleaner. This daily cleaning removes the thin film of plaque before it has a chance to harden and mineralize into tartar. The brushing should cover all surfaces, including the fitting surface and the areas between the teeth.
Soaking the dentures overnight is also a standard practice that helps maintain their shape and reduces the bacterial load. Dentures should be kept moist when not being worn, typically by submerging them in a glass of plain water or a mild denture-soaking solution. This practice is distinct from the deep-cleaning soaks used for tartar removal, focusing instead on hydration and routine sanitation.
When Home Cleaning Is Not Enough
There are instances where tartar buildup becomes too dense or deeply set for home methods alone to remove effectively. If the buildup remains hard and cannot be dislodged after repeated soaking and brushing attempts, the denture requires professional attention. Dentists and dental laboratories use specialized ultrasonic cleaning equipment that employs high-frequency sound waves to vibrate and break apart stubborn mineral deposits without damaging the denture material.
Regular professional check-ups remain necessary, typically once or twice a year. During these visits, the dental professional can assess the overall condition of the denture, check for any damage, and ensure the fit remains correct. Tartar buildup can slightly alter the way a denture fits, potentially causing irritation or sore spots, which a professional can identify.
A dentist can also address other issues that are beyond the scope of home care, such as significant staining that does not respond to soaking, or the need for a reline or repair. Relying on professional deep cleaning prevents the temptation to use overly harsh or abrasive household chemicals that could permanently damage the plastic base of the appliance.