Partial dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth, restoring function and appearance. While durable, their long-term stability and fit depend on proper daily care and storage. Many people wonder if these appliances should be kept in water when not worn. The answer is yes, due to the specific materials used to create the device.
The Necessity of Hydration
Partial dentures must be kept moist when out of the mouth to maintain structural integrity. Most removable partials are constructed using acrylic or resin, which is designed to exist in a hydrated state supplied by saliva during wear.
If the acrylic material dries out, it undergoes dehydration. This loss of moisture causes the material to become brittle, increasing the risk of cracking or breaking. Dehydration can also cause the acrylic to warp, shrink, or distort its shape.
Even minor changes in shape compromise the custom fit, leading to discomfort and instability. Warped dentures often require costly replacement. Keeping the partial denture fully submerged in liquid prevents these changes, ensuring the appliance remains dimensionally stable and comfortable.
Choosing the Right Soaking Solution
Once removed from the mouth, the partial denture should be placed into a liquid-filled container. While plain tap water provides necessary hydration, it offers minimal hygiene benefits. For overnight storage, a specialized denture cleaning tablet or solution is preferred, as it combines hydration with chemical cleaning action.
These effervescent cleansers reduce staining, eliminate odor-causing bacteria, and break down plaque. When using these products, follow the manufacturer’s instructions concerning soaking time and use lukewarm water. Hot or boiling water must be avoided completely, as excessive heat can permanently warp the plastic materials, destroying the fit.
Certain household products should never be used as a soaking solution or cleaner. Regular toothpaste is too abrasive for acrylic surfaces and creates microscopic scratches where bacteria can accumulate. Harsh chemicals, such as bleach, can corrode metal components found in partial dentures or permanently discolor the acrylic.
Daily Cleaning Routines
Soaking the partial denture is a form of passive cleaning and storage, but it is not a substitute for active, physical cleaning. The daily routine should begin with rinsing the partial under running water immediately after meals to remove loose food particles and debris. This simple action prevents the accumulation of material that can quickly contribute to plaque formation.
The appliance should be gently brushed at least once a day using a soft-bristled brush specifically designed for dentures. Use a non-abrasive denture cleanser or mild hand soap instead of regular toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface. All surfaces must be brushed, paying close attention to the clasps and the areas that contact the gums and natural teeth, as these are common spots for bacterial biofilm to adhere.
Thorough brushing is necessary because soaking alone cannot effectively remove adherent microbial plaque, which requires physical action. After both the active cleaning and the overnight soak, the partial denture must be rinsed thoroughly with water before being placed back into the mouth. This final rinse removes any residual cleanser, ensuring no chemicals irritate the mouth’s soft tissues.