How do I clean my dentures?
Introduction
Just like your natural teeth, your dentures need regular care for them to stay in good condition. Proper cleaning helps extend their lifespan and reduces the risk of oral diseases. In this guide, we’ll take a look at how to clean and maintain each type of denture, including acrylic, chrome, flexible (Valplast), injection moulded, and 3D printed options.
Understanding Your Dentures
Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s important to understand the different types of dentures and their lifespans. Standard acrylic dentures last 1–3 years, high-impact acrylic dentures 3–5 years, chrome dentures 8–12 years, flexible dentures 3–5 years and the lifespan of other types such as injection moulded and 3D printed options vary.
Remember, partial dentures must be prescribed by a dentist while full dentures can be fitted by Clinical Dental Technicians. Regular relines and adjustments are also a part of denture care and help maintain your comfort and the effectiveness of your dentures.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Brush Daily
Just like natural teeth, dentures should be brushed daily to remove food particles and plaque. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid using toothpaste as it can be too abrasive for dentures. Instead, use a mild soap or a denture cleaning solution.
Soak Overnight
Most types of dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. Therefore, it’s important to soak your dentures in a denture cleaning solution or water overnight. However, be cautious with certain types of dentures. For instance, Valplast (flexible) dentures should not be soaked in any cleaning solution as it can discolour or damage them.
Professional Cleaning
Despite daily cleaning, it’s recommended to have your dentures professionally cleaned by a dentist or a Clinical Dental Technician once in a while. They have specialised tools and cleaning solutions that can remove tartar and stains that daily cleaning cannot.
What to Avoid
Avoid using hot water to clean your dentures as it can warp them. Also, steer clear of abrasive cleaning materials, like hard-bristled toothbrushes, whitening toothpastes, or bleaching products, as they can damage your dentures.
Cost of Cleaning and Maintenance
The cost of denture cleaning and maintenance varies depending on the treatment type and provider. For more detailed information on costs, please check out this page: How much do dentures cost in the UK?.
Conclusion
Taking care of your dentures is a crucial part of maintaining your oral health. Whether you have acrylic, chrome, or flexible dentures, a proper cleaning routine will help extend their lifespan and keep them looking their best. Remember, it’s not just about cleaning your dentures, but also scheduling regular check-ups and professional cleanings with your dental care provider.
At the end of the day, your dentures are an investment in your health and confidence, and like any investment, they deserve to be well taken care of. For more advice on denture care visit NHS guide on dental health or get in touch with our team at Denture Directory.
