How do I prevent bad breath with dentures?
Introduction
Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common issue among many denture wearers. While it’s natural to worry about bad breath, especially when you’re in social settings, it’s important to know that it can be easily managed with the right care and hygiene practices. This blog post will provide you with a guide on how to prevent bad breath with dentures.
Understanding Dentures
Before we delve into how to prevent bad breath with dentures, let’s briefly understand what dentures are. Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They come in two types: complete and partial. Complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain.
A variety of denture types are available, including standard acrylic, high-impact acrylic, chrome, flexible (Valplast), injection moulded, and 3D printed options. The lifespan of these dentures varies, with standard acrylic lasting 1–3 years, high-impact acrylic and flexible dentures lasting 3–5 years, and chrome dentures lasting 8–12 years.
Why Do Dentures Cause Bad Breath?
The main reason dentures can cause bad breath is due to the build-up of food particles and bacteria. When dentures aren’t cleaned properly, these particles can stick to the dentures, leading to bad breath. Additionally, if dentures don’t fit properly, they can cause discomfort and lead to infection, which can also result in bad breath.
Preventing Bad Breath with Dentures
1. Regular Cleaning
The first step in preventing bad breath with dentures is maintaining good oral hygiene. This includes regular cleaning of your dentures. It’s recommended to clean your dentures daily to remove food particles and plaque. This can be done using a soft denture brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner. Remember, cleaning your dentures is as important as cleaning your natural teeth.
2. Soak Your Dentures Overnight
Soaking your dentures overnight is another important step in maintaining good denture hygiene. This not only helps to keep your dentures clean, but also helps to maintain their shape. Always use a proper denture soaking solution for this purpose.
3. Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular dental check-ups are crucial to maintain good oral health and prevent bad breath. During check-ups, your dentist or Clinical Dental Technician can inspect your dentures for fit and comfort, and perform any necessary relines and adjustments. They can also provide you with advice on maintaining good denture hygiene.
4. Proper Nutrition and Hydration
Proper nutrition and hydration play a crucial role in preventing bad breath. Consuming a balanced diet can help to maintain good oral health, while staying hydrated can help to prevent dry mouth – a condition that can contribute to bad breath.
Conclusion
Bad breath with dentures is a common issue, but one that can be easily managed with the right care and hygiene practices. Regular cleaning and soaking of your dentures, combined with regular dental check-ups, can help to ensure that your dentures remain clean and fresh. Proper nutrition and hydration can also play a crucial role in preventing bad breath.
Remember, the cost of dentures varies depending on the treatment type and provider. For more information on denture costs, you can visit this page.
For more detailed information on denture care, you can refer to the NHS guide. Additionally, you can also seek advice from GDC registered professionals or visit reputable CDT-led practices like Smiles Centre.
Your smile is important, and so is your breath. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy a confident, fresh breath-filled smile with your dentures.
