Removable dental appliances, commonly known as dentures, require consistent and specific care to maintain both the appliance and oral health. These prosthetics accumulate plaque and debris just like natural teeth, making daily cleaning necessary. Using inappropriate products can damage the denture material, leading to a shorter lifespan and potential oral health issues. The correct cleaning approach ensures the dentures remain hygienic, comfortable, and functional.
Understanding the Risks of Abrasive Cleaners
Many people mistakenly use regular toothpaste on their dentures, believing it will provide a deep clean, but this practice is harmful. Traditional toothpastes contain abrasive ingredients like hydrated silica or calcium carbonate, which are meant to polish much harder natural tooth enamel. Dentures, however, are typically made from softer acrylic resin, which has a poor resistance to abrasion. When these harsh ingredients are brushed onto the acrylic, they scratch the surface, creating microscopic grooves and irregularities.
These tiny scratches compromise the smooth surface of the prosthetic. Over time, the rougher texture becomes a prime location for the accumulation of bacteria, plaque, and fungi, leading to the formation of tenacious biofilm. This buildup causes discoloration, unpleasant odors, and can lead to oral infections like denture-related stomatitis (inflammation of the tissue beneath the appliance). Furthermore, the abrasive action weakens the denture material, making it more susceptible to cracks and breaks. Whitening toothpastes are also unsuitable, as they are equally abrasive and the peroxide does not change the color of prosthetic teeth.
Approved Products for Denture Cleaning
The correct approach involves using non-abrasive products specifically formulated for prosthetic materials. Specialized denture pastes or gels are a safe option, as they are manufactured with ultra-low-abrasivity formulas designed not to scratch the acrylic resin. These products allow for the necessary mechanical brushing action without damaging the surface integrity of the denture. The American College of Prosthodontists recommends daily cleaning with an effective, nonabrasive denture cleanser to reduce harmful bacteria and fungi.
Another simple and readily available alternative for mechanical cleaning is unperfumed, mild liquid hand soap or dish soap. Brushing with a mild soap and warm water has been shown not to produce detectable wear on the acrylic surface. This method removes food debris and plaque effectively without the risk of abrasion. However, while brushing with soap is excellent for daily physical cleaning, it may not provide the necessary disinfection.
For a deeper clean and disinfection, effervescent denture cleansing tablets are widely used. These tablets dissolve in water to create a chemical soak, typically an alkaline peroxide solution, which works through an oxidizing and bubbling action to break down organic deposits and kill microorganisms. Soaking helps remove stubborn stains and plaque that brushing alone might miss. It is important to note that these chemical soaks are primarily for immersion and should not be used as a brushing paste.
Establishing a Daily Cleaning Routine
A comprehensive daily routine combines both mechanical brushing and chemical soaking to ensure thorough hygiene. The brushing process should begin by removing the dentures and rinsing them under running water to dislodge any loose food particles. It is highly recommended to perform this action over a sink filled with water or a folded towel to cushion the appliance in case it is accidentally dropped, preventing potential breakage.
The physical cleaning involves using a soft-bristled denture brush, which is shaped to access all the contours of the prosthetic, or a very soft standard toothbrush. Gentle scrubbing should be applied to all surfaces, including the inner surfaces that rest against the gums, using a specialized denture paste or mild soap. This mechanical action physically removes accumulated plaque and biofilm. After brushing, the dentures should be rinsed again under clean, warm water.
The next step is soaking, which should occur daily, often overnight. Dentures must remain moist to prevent them from drying out and changing shape. Soaking should be done in plain water or a manufacturer-recommended denture-cleansing solution. Finally, before reinserting the dentures, the soft tissues of the mouth—the gums, tongue, and palate—must be gently cleaned with a soft toothbrush or damp cloth. This final step removes bacteria from the mouth’s surface, promoting healthy circulation and overall oral hygiene.