Dentures are an alternative to bad or missing teeth and worn by many people. Although dentures are made from other materials, and not actual bone and calcium, it is still important to care for them properly. Cleaning them with a solution to keep them white is essential in removing food stains and/or tobacco stains. Coffee, nicotine and soda are the leading causes of stains on dentures.
Cleansers and Contraindications
There are different types of cleansers for different types of dentures. It is important to use a cleanser that is compatible with the material the denture is made out of to prevent damage to the denture. It is not advisable to use homemade cleansers on dentures that have a temporary soft lining or on partials. Only use doctor recommendations for temporary soft linings and partials. Commercial cleansers are available, but for complete dentures only, a homemade denture cleanser is just as effective and costs less.
Recipe
The recipe for a denture cleanser includes bleach. Due to bleach's corrosive qualities, do not use on any denture except resin dentures.
Mix 1 teaspoon bleach with 2 teaspoons Calgon water softener in 6 ounces of cool water. Mix well. Place the dentures in the solution and allow to soak for at least 30 minutes or preferably, overnight. The bleach kills most of the bacteria found in the mouth and will whiten the teeth at the same time.
Use a soft nylon toothbrush and brush the dentures under cool running water to remove all traces of the cleanser before placing the dentures in the mouth.
Healthy Gums
An anti-bacterial liquid soap is the best for brushing any denture, liners included. Toothpastes, baking soda or other powders are too abrasive for cleaning dentures and will scratch the surface of the denture. Over time, the minute scratches damage the surface and stains are harder to remove. Use a soft-bristled denture brush in place of regular toothbrushes.
Gums require cleaning, as well. Brush the gums daily with a soft toothbrush to maintain healthy gums. Never wear dentures continuously. This is not healthy for gums. Remove dentures at least one hour every day, but overnight is preferable. Massage the gums while the dentures are out of the mouth to aide in circulation.
Tags: denture cleanser, dentures mouth, different types, healthy gums, temporary soft