Avoiding Common Errors While Cleaning Dentures: A Guide to Preventing Four Common Mistakes
"Maintaining Denture Hygiene: Preventing Common Mistakes"
COLOGNE – The accumulation of food particles and bacteria on removable dentures throughout the day is akin to the buildup on natural teeth, necessitating regular cleaning to prevent bad breath, tartar, and ill-fitting dentures. However, the cleaning process presents pitfalls that should be avoided, as highlighted by dentist Julia Thome from Cologne's Dental Center Carree Dental.
Avoiding Mishandling Dentures
- Being too careless with dentures: Because dentures are fragile, dropping them forcefully into the sink or onto tiles could result in deformation or, in extreme cases, breakage. Reduce the risk by lining the sink with a soft towel before cleaning and always grasping the denture by its sturdy plastic or metal parts instead of the attachment or clamp areas, which may bend.
Regular and Comprehensive Cleaning
- Cleansing the denture only in the morning and evening: While this is a good starting point, dental professional Julia Thome recommends cleaning the denture after each meal. This includes not only the exterior surfaces, but also those that rest against the gums or palate.
Avoiding Abrasive Cleaning Agents
- Using toothpaste for denture cleaning: The abrasive particles present in toothpaste can scratch a denture's surface, making it more susceptible to plaque and stains. Opt instead for a soap or a cleaning paste designed for dentures. A denture brush may be used under running warm water for effective cleaning. Notably, denture cleaning tablets alone are insufficient for cleaning purposes.
Storing the Denture Correctly
- Keeping the denture in a disinfectant solution overnight: When left in the mouth overnight, the denture can irritate the mucous membranes. However, avoid soaking it in a disinfectant solution overnight, as the aggressive substances can make the material brittle over time. Instead, store the removable denture in a glass of tap water.
By adhering to these best practices and avoiding common mistakes, individuals can ensure that their removable dentures remain in good condition and continue to fit properly. Regular dental check-ups are also crucial for addressing potential issues and ensuring the dentures fit optimally.
- To maintain the longevity and fit of dentures, it's essential to handle them carefully, such as lining the sink with a soft towel before cleaning and always gripping them securely by their sturdy parts rather than the attachment or clamp areas that may bend.
- In addition to morning and evening cleanings, incorporating regular post-meal cleanings, including the inner denture surfaces that come into contact with the gums or palate, is crucial in health-and-wellness and adheres to the principles of science for proper denture hygiene.
