Dentures are a popular way to rebuild your smile after losing some or all of your permanent teeth because they restore so much of your ability to eat and speak with ease. Plus, with the right care, they can last 10+ years. If you’re new to dentures, it’s natural to have questions about how to maintain them properly.
For example, you may wonder whether it’s okay to brush your artificial teeth while they’re still in your mouth. If you’re curious, continue reading to find out!
Can I Brush Dentures While They’re in My Mouth?
There’s nothing to stop you from taking a toothbrush to your artificial teeth while you’re still wearing them. If you use a soft-bristled brush and a special paste that won’t abrade the material, it probably won’t hurt them.
However, you can’t reach all of the surfaces of your dentures when they’re in your mouth. You might be able to clean the outside thoroughly, but the underside remains pressed against your gums. Leftover bits of food or germs can become trapped in the space between your connective tissue and your restoration, and if they’re not cleared away, you could develop gum disease or bad breath. That means that although you technically can brush it while it’s in your mouth, you should regularly remove it for a more thorough cleaning.
How Should I Brush My Dentures?
To keep your prosthetics in good shape, you should remove them both morning and night to brush them. Hard bristles and standard toothpaste can harm the acrylic base and ceramic pontics (artificial teeth), so try a softer brush and mild dish soap instead. Gently scrub all the sides of your dentures, taking special care to reach inside any small grooves or clips. Then, if it’s morning and you’re starting your day, rinse them under room-temperature water before placing them in your mouth. Hot temperatures can warp them, so they no longer fit and should be avoided.
If you’re heading to bed for the night, rinse them and then place them in a glass with clean water or a special soaking solution. This can kill up to 99% of bacteria while you sleep.
How Else Can I Maintain My Dentures?
Some additional tips to care for your restoration include:
- Rinse after meals. Holding them under gently running water after you’ve eaten clears away leftover food and germs.
- Place a towel down. Your prosthetics can become slippery when you wash them and fall to the floor. Try placing a towel beneath you so they’re less likely to break if they take a tumble.
- Clean your mouth. When you take your dentures out to brush them, you should also gently scrub your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth.
Consistently maintaining your dentures can keep them looking and feeling fresh for years!
About the Practice
At Legacy Dentistry, you and your family benefit from two skilled dentists who work together to offer a full range of services under one roof. Dr. Nguyen and Dr. Baird are faith-based professionals who take a compassionate and respectful approach to patient care. They combine a relaxing environment with state-of-the-art technology to help you feel at ease while providing accurate treatment results. If you’re interested in dentures and want a consultation, you can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 723-1148.