Compared to earlier kinds, today’s modern dentures tend to look very lifelike. Many folks can’t even tell them apart from a patient’s natural smile! Still, these facts don’t mean you should brush dentures in your mouth like regular teeth. This habit wouldn’t do enough to protect and preserve your oral health over time, as only relying on it can cause dental issues. Learn more about the matter in this informative summary from your local Wheaton dentist!
In-Mouth Brushing: It Isn’t Enough
Honestly, it’s okay to brush dentures – whether partial, full, etc. – while they’re in your mouth. Doing so won’t (or at least shouldn’t) do any damage to your new replacement teeth. That said, this habit alone won’t do enough to protect your smile over time.
You see, in-mouth brushing only removes a little plaque and debris. That’s because your toothbrush can’t reach all the areas that need thorough cleaning; your oral tissues will get in the way. Given this reality, only brushing dentures in your mouth will lead to oral issues. It’d put you at a much higher risk of gum disease, bad breath (halitosis), dry mouth, etc.
Meanwhile, brushing dentures outside of your mouth is much more effective. It allows you to reach all parts of your restorations to remove harmful bacteria. Granted, you’d have to remember to only use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a special cleansing paste. Stiff bristles and regular toothpaste are abrasive and could greatly damage your dentures.
How to Properly Clean Dentures
On top of brushing outside the mouth, other great denture-cleaning tips include the following:
- Exercise Caution – If you clean your dentures while holding them, make sure they’re set above water or a towel. This method ensures the prosthetics won’t break if they fall.
- Brush Your Whole Mouth – Rather than just brush the dentures themselves, remember to clean your whole mouth. Brushing your gums, tongue, and palate daily will reduce the level of bacteria that could cause problems.
- Consider Using Vinegar – To remove tartar clinging to your dentures, soak the prosthetics in a vinegar mixture. Just make sure to dilute the solution first; make it one part vinegar to four parts water.
- Soak Dentures Nightly – If you want your dentures to stay moist while you sleep, remove them nightly and soak them in a glass of water or a branded solution.
You can brush dentures in your mouth but don’t simply focus on that. Remember to look after your whole smile so your new teeth last long!
About the Author
Dr. Kathy Lam is a qualified dentist based in Wheaton, IL, having earned her DDS from Howard University College of Dentistry. She’s highly skilled in preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental work, so patients of all ages can trust her care. Rest assured that her treatments can quickly make any smile healthy and thriving! Today, Dr. Lam practices at her self-titled clinic and is reachable on her website and by phone at (630)-653-7720.