How can you clean dentures at home using natural ingredients. What are the most effective homemade denture cleaners. Which household products work best for maintaining false teeth. How to safely disinfect and remove stains from dentures without commercial cleaners.

Understanding the Importance of Proper Denture Care

Dentures have become a popular choice for replacing missing teeth due to their natural appearance and ease of maintenance. However, like natural teeth, dentures require daily cleaning and care to maintain their appearance and prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms. While commercial denture cleaners are widely available, many people are turning to home remedies as effective and cost-efficient alternatives.

The Risks of Commercial Denture Cleaners

Commercial denture cleaners often contain persulfate as an active ingredient. This chemical has raised concerns due to potential allergic reactions in some individuals. These reactions can range from tissue damage and rashes to more severe symptoms like breathing problems and low blood pressure. Given these risks, exploring natural alternatives for denture cleaning becomes increasingly appealing.

Potential Side Effects of Persulfate in Denture Cleaners:

• Tissue damage
• Skin rashes
• Respiratory issues
• Lowered blood pressure
• Gum tenderness

Effective Home Remedies for Denture Cleaning

Several household ingredients can be used to create safe and effective denture cleaning solutions. These natural alternatives not only clean and disinfect but also help maintain the appearance of your dentures without the risk of harmful chemical reactions.

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution

This powerful combination creates an effective, natural cleaner for dentures. How do you prepare this solution? Mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar in a glass container until it begins to bubble. Soak your dentures in this mixture overnight for optimal results. This method helps keep dentures white and clean while being gentle on the material.

2. Aloe Vera Gel Treatment

Aloe vera is known for its antimicrobial properties, making it an excellent choice for preventing fungal growth on dentures. To use this method, apply aloe vera gel to your dentures twice daily for a few minutes. After application, rinse the dentures with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water. This process helps loosen plaque and remove stains effectively.

3. Diluted Bleach Solution

When used in small amounts, bleach can be an effective denture cleaner. How should you prepare a safe bleach solution for dentures? Mix one part bleach with two parts water to create a mild cleaning solution. Gently brush your dentures with this mixture to maintain their whiteness and shine. However, it’s crucial to use this method sparingly to avoid potential damage to the denture material.

Safe Practices for Natural Denture Cleaning

While exploring home remedies for denture cleaning, it’s essential to be aware of practices and substances that could potentially damage your dentures. Avoiding these common mistakes will help preserve the integrity and appearance of your false teeth.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Dentures:

• Abrasive cleaning materials
• Whitening toothpaste
• Products containing high concentrations of bleach
• Hot water

These items can cause damage to the material of your dentures, potentially altering their fit or appearance. Always opt for gentle cleaning methods and lukewarm water when caring for your dentures.

The Role of Mechanical Cleaning in Denture Care

While chemical soaking solutions play a crucial role in denture maintenance, they should not be considered a substitute for mechanical cleaning. Brushing remains an essential step in effective denture care. How often should you brush your dentures? Ideally, you should brush your dentures at least once daily, using a soft-bristled brush designed for dentures or a regular soft toothbrush.

Mechanical cleaning helps remove food particles and plaque that may accumulate throughout the day. It also helps prevent staining and maintains the overall hygiene of your dentures. When combined with soaking in a homemade cleaning solution, brushing ensures comprehensive care for your false teeth.

Additional Natural Alternatives for Denture Cleaning

Beyond the primary home remedies mentioned earlier, there are other natural alternatives that can be effective for cleaning and maintaining dentures. These methods utilize common household items and can be easily incorporated into your denture care routine.

Salt Water Rinse

A simple salt water solution can serve as an effective and gentle denture cleanser. How do you prepare a salt water rinse for dentures? Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. This solution can be used to rinse dentures after meals or as a quick refresh throughout the day. Salt has natural antibacterial properties that can help maintain oral hygiene.

Lemon Juice Soak

Lemon juice is known for its natural bleaching and antibacterial properties. To use lemon juice as a denture cleaner, mix equal parts lemon juice and water. Soak your dentures in this solution for about 30 minutes. The citric acid in lemon juice can help remove stains and kill bacteria. However, due to its acidic nature, this method should be used sparingly to avoid potential damage to denture materials.

Tea Tree Oil Solution

Tea tree oil is renowned for its antimicrobial properties. How can you use tea tree oil to clean dentures? Add a few drops of tea tree oil to a cup of warm water. Soak your dentures in this solution for 15-20 minutes. This method can help combat bacteria and fungal growth on your dentures. Always dilute tea tree oil properly, as it can be too strong in its pure form.

The Importance of Proper Denture Storage

Proper storage of dentures when not in use is as crucial as cleaning them regularly. Correct storage helps maintain the shape of dentures and prevents them from drying out, which can lead to warping or cracking. What’s the best way to store dentures overnight?

1. Clean your dentures thoroughly before storage
2. Place them in a container filled with cool water or a mild denture-soaking solution
3. Never use hot water, as it can warp the denture material
4. Keep the storage container in a safe place away from children and pets

By following these storage guidelines, you can help extend the life of your dentures and ensure they maintain their proper fit and function.

Addressing Common Denture Cleaning Challenges

Even with regular cleaning and proper care, denture wearers may encounter certain challenges. Understanding these issues and knowing how to address them can help maintain the longevity and effectiveness of your dentures.

Persistent Stains

Some stains, particularly those from coffee, tea, or tobacco, can be stubborn and difficult to remove with regular cleaning. In such cases, how can you effectively remove these persistent stains? One method is to create a paste using baking soda and a small amount of water. Gently brush this paste onto the stained areas of your dentures, then rinse thoroughly. This can help lift stubborn stains without damaging the denture material.

Odor Issues

Dentures can sometimes develop unpleasant odors, especially if not cleaned properly. To combat this, consider soaking your dentures in a solution of water and a few drops of essential oil, such as peppermint or tea tree oil. These natural oils have antimicrobial properties and can help freshen your dentures. Always rinse thoroughly after using any essential oil solution.

Calcium Build-up

Over time, calcium deposits can accumulate on dentures, appearing as a white, crusty substance. How can you safely remove calcium build-up from dentures? Soaking them in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water can help dissolve these deposits. Leave the dentures in this solution for several hours or overnight, then brush gently to remove the loosened calcium.

When to Seek Professional Dental Care

While home remedies can be effective for routine denture care, there are situations where professional dental intervention becomes necessary. Recognizing these scenarios is crucial for maintaining both your dentures and your overall oral health.

Signs That Indicate a Need for Professional Care:

• Persistent bad breath despite regular cleaning
• Visible cracks or chips in the dentures
• Changes in the fit of your dentures
• Persistent sore spots in your mouth
• Discoloration that doesn’t respond to home cleaning methods

If you experience any of these issues, it’s important to consult with a dental professional. They can assess the condition of your dentures and provide necessary adjustments or repairs. Regular dental check-ups are also essential for denture wearers to ensure ongoing oral health and proper fit of their dentures.

The Future of Denture Care: Innovations and Trends

As dental technology continues to advance, new innovations are emerging in the field of denture care. These developments aim to make denture maintenance easier, more effective, and more comfortable for users.

Antimicrobial Materials

Recent research has focused on developing denture materials with built-in antimicrobial properties. How do these materials work? They incorporate compounds that naturally inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, potentially reducing the risk of oral infections and simplifying the cleaning process.

Smart Denture Technology

The concept of “smart dentures” is gaining traction in the dental community. These advanced dentures could potentially include sensors that monitor oral health conditions and alert users or their dentists to potential issues. While still in development, this technology could revolutionize denture care and maintenance.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions

As environmental concerns grow, there’s an increasing focus on developing eco-friendly denture cleaning solutions. These products aim to provide effective cleaning while minimizing environmental impact. Many of these solutions incorporate natural, biodegradable ingredients, aligning with the trend towards more sustainable personal care products.

While these innovations show promise, it’s important to remember that traditional cleaning methods, including the home remedies discussed earlier, remain effective and accessible options for most denture wearers. As new technologies emerge, they will likely complement rather than replace these tried-and-true methods of denture care.

3 Great Homemade Ways to Clean your Dentures (2023)

One of the main reasons dentures are one of the most popular replacements for teeth is because of their easy care and natural appearance. Like teeth, dentures also need daily cleaning and maintenance, and that’s why people usually use denture cleaner.

The purpose of this element is not only to keep them free from stains and looking their best, but also to control the growth of micro-organisms on the dentures, and it must be used only when dentures are out of the mouth.

But did you know that you are able to use homemade products to clean your dentures instead of using regular cleaners?

What is the best denture cleaner?

Sometimes, we don’t know exactly what dental cleaners contain or which one is better for our needs.

That’s why making your own denture cleaner can be a great option to avoid undesirable reactions, plus it’s easy to make a denture cleaner with ingredients that we usually have at home.

There are three alternative homemade cleaners that we highly recommend:

1. Baking soda and vinegar. Combine the two elements in a glass container and mix until the solution begins to bubble. Then soak the teeth in the solution all night. This makes an excellent natural alternative to keep your teeth white and clean.
2. Aloe Vera. This gel is a treatment that is helpful in preventing fungal growth. Applying the gel on dentures twice a day for a few minutes and then washing it away with a solution of half vinegar and half water can help loosen plaque and eliminate stains. 
3. Bleach. A light dose of this product won’t harm your denture. Our recommendation is to brush your dentures with a solution that contains one part bleach and two parts water. By doing this, dentures can stay white and shiny. 

How to clean dentures naturally

Although buying a dental cleaner is very usual, there are a few things that you should avoid when thinking about cleaning your dentures, such as abrasive cleaning materials, whitening toothpaste, and hot water. All of these can damage the material your teeth are made of.

The majority of dental cleaners contain an active ingredient called persulfate, which lately has been a major concern.

In some people, persulfate may cause allergic reactions which can lead to tissue damage, rashes, breathing problems, low blood pressure, or gum tenderness.

Homemade products such as baking soda and vinegar can be easily found in any store, they’re natural and surely will keep your teeth looking at their best without giving you any reaction. 

You typically should avoid:

• Abrasive cleaning materials.
• Whitening toothpaste.
• Bleach-containing products.
• Hot water. 

Learn more about the products you should avoid from Mayo’s experts.

Taking care of your teeth and dentures is essential and Sani Dental Group knows it better than anyone. If you have any questions or doubts about your dental care, don’t hesitate on giving us a call or schedule an appointment with one of our doctors and specialist.

Your smile is very important to us!

Disclaimer: Open dentist to help you with your dental needs. We are taking additional special measures following CDC recommendations to ensure your health and safety.

Homemade denture cleaners- Using natural & household products.

All topics.  »All Full / Partial Denture pages.  »Denture care – Brushing

– Directions for preparing and using denture soaks made out of natural and household products (bleach, vinegar, baking soda, mouthwash).

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Using a homemade solution can work well for denture cleaning.

You don’t have to buy a commercially-prepared soaking product for cleaning and disinfecting your false teeth. Homemade cleaners, which can be made for just a few cents using household products you already have, can be every bit as effective.

• This page provides directions for making and using bleach, vinegar, and baking soda-based denture cleaners. We also discuss the use of mouthwash as a denture soak.

• Keep in mind, chemical cleansing (soaking) is only the second half of effective denture care. Best practices always include mechanical cleansing (at minimum brushing) first.

Homemade & natural denture cleansers.

1) Bleach-based soaks.

The most commonly used homemade denture cleanser is a diluted bleach solution.

• It’s effective for both cleaning and especially disinfecting false teeth.
• It’s also effective in removing stains due to exposure to chromogenic agents such as coffee, cola, tea and tobacco products.

Issues that must be considered.

Despite its popularity, there are some concerns associated with the use of a bleach-based soak.

Especially in the case where a comparatively higher concentration solution or extended soaking period is involved, damage to your complete or partial denture may occur.

We discuss what research has reported about these issues in our “Precautions” section below.

a) Preparation and use.

There are several variations as to how a homemade bleach-based denture cleanser should be prepared and used. Based on information gathered from the studies and reports cited below, the following directions seem to be a reasonable approach for this method.

Having said that, no one is in a position to know more about your dentures and the materials that have been used to make them than your dentist. And for that reason, it’s always best to discuss your cleaning plans (of any type) with them in advance.

Denture cleaner can be made using household bleach.

Directions for making.

• A soaking mixture can be made by taking 1 part household bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlorite) and diluting it with 10 parts water. The result is roughly a 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution.

  [The sodium hypochlorite concentration found in some household bleach products is different than 5. 25% (check your bottle’s label). If yours is, simply adjust your dilution accordingly. For 6% products, add an extra 2 parts of water. For 8.25% ones, use a 1 to 16 ratio.]

• It’s best to mix this soak fresh at the time of use. Doing so ensures maximum effectiveness.

  If you prefer preparing a quantity of solution a few days ahead of time, it should be stored in a cool environment, in a dark location or opaque container.

Denture cleaning
methods:

Brushing
Homemade
bleach soak.
Homemade
vinegar soak.
Mouthwash
Cleanser
Safety
Ultrasonic
Cleaners
UV Light
Cleaners

Directions for using.

• Accumulated film and loose debris should be removed from your denture by way of scrubbing it with a brush first. (See link above for a discussion about this topic.)
• This soak can be used once a day for a duration of 3 to 10 minutes. Longer soaks, especially overnight, don’t make the best choice. (We discuss duration-of-use issues in detail below.)
• It’s important to thoroughly rinse your denture off with cool tap water before inserting it back into your mouth. Bleach-based solutions have the potential to irritate oral tissues.
• If your denture is not returned to your mouth, it should be stored fully immersed in water.
• [As discussed below, bleach-based solutions should not be used with dentures that have metal components, and possibly those that have certain types of relining materials.]

Why just 3 to 10 minutes daily?

• A study by de Sousa Porta evaluated the use of this soak for 3 minutes daily over the course of 90 days. It was found to be effective in reducing the numbers of microorganisms, including Candida (a common oral fungus), found on dentures.
• This recommendation stays within the guidelines of the American College of Prosthodontists (an organization of “denture specialists”). They suggest that exposure of false teeth to sodium hypochlorite solution exceeding 10 minutes should be avoided (for reasons discussed below in the “Precautions” section). (Felton)

More from the ACP’s guidelines about denture cleansers.

• The guidelines stated that, as compared to other alternative denture-immersion methods (soaking), using a bleach-based solution probably makes the most effective choice.
• They also considered bleach-based products to be the most effective type of commercial cleanser too, suggesting that, overall, using this method typically makes a best-choice.

▲ Section references – Felton, de Sousa Porta

b) How to make this homemade soak more effective.

While bleach-based denture cleaner makes a good stain remover and disinfectant, it’s not especially effective in helping to remove mineral deposits (tartar) that have built up on false teeth.

• You can give your soak added tartar-removing capability by adding one teaspoon of Calgon® water softener (Calgon the calcium-chelating agent, not Calgon the soap or bath oil) per glassful of the homemade solution above.
• After soaking, brush your denture a second time. Some mineral deposits and associated stain may still remain but have softened up enough that they can be brushed off.

c) Precautions / concerns with bleach-based denture cleaners.

[The issue of bleach-based soak safety is discussed here.]

Get your dentist’s OK.

Over the past decades, a number of studies have investigated how the plastics used in denture fabrication may be affected by different types of denture cleaners, including the homemade ones we discuss on this page.

And while what we report here does apply to standard denture materials (and therefore most people) your appliances, or the materials they have since been repaired or relined with, may be exceptions.

For this reason, the choice of any denture cleanser, homemade or commercial, should be approved by your dentist.

i) Color fading.

Bleach-based cleaners can cause the pink coloration of denture plastic to fade (the “gums” portion of your appliance). Two factors that are important with this phenomenon are the concentration of the solution that’s used, and the duration/frequency of the soaking period.

As an example of what you might expect:

• A study by Gulfema evaluated the color changes that took place with various brands of denture acrylics (plastics) when exposed to 4 solutions, one of which was “dilute sodium hypochlorite 0.5%” (the homemade cleaner we describe above).
• After 15 days of exposure to the solution (the cumulative equivalent of almost 6 years of daily 10-minute soaks), tests showed that some color change had taken place. But the amount of change was “below the limit of visual perceptibility” (it couldn’t be detected by the human eye).

A more recent study by de Sousa Porta evaluated the use of 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution (our mixture above) for 3 minute soaks over the course of 90 days and found no significant color changes.

These same general findings were also reported by Salles. This study simulated the use of a 0.5% solution for 20 minutes a day for 5 years and found no significant alteration of denture acrylic color.

Why soaking overnight doesn’t make the best choice.

Paranhos found that a simulation of 180 days of soaking overnight (8-hour immersions in a 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution) did create a noticeable color change. Hence our recommendation above of just short daily soaks as opposed to overnight.

▲ Section references – Gulfema, de Sousa Porta, Salles, Paranhos

ii) Surface roughness.

Some research suggests that the use of bleach-based soaks may tend to roughen the plastic surface of false teeth.

The concern here is that it’s been shown that an increase in surface roughness increases the ease with which microorganisms are able to adhere to denture surfaces (Verran).

Not all studies have found this effect, including some recent ones.

• Ural evaluated the use of bleach at full-strength, 5 hours a day for 7 days. (This concentration is 10 times that of our homemade soak above. The study period was equivalent to 210 days of 10-minute soaking. )
• de Sousa Porta evaluated the use of 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution (our mixture above) for 3 minute soaks over the course of 90 days and found no significant changes in surface roughness.
• Salles simulated the use of 0.5% solution for 20 minutes a day over a 5-year span and found no significant change in denture surface roughness.

Take note.

One study that did identify surface roughness changes is Paranhos. It simulated the use of diluted-bleach cleaner (0.5% sodium hypochlorite, our homemade dilution above) with overnight (8 hour) soaks, over the course of 180 days (almost 50 times the exposure created by the daily 10 minute treatments recommended above).

This regimen resulted in a change of surface roughness of just 0.195 microns. That number is important because Quirynen determined that changes up to 0.2 microns didn’t significantly increase the ability of microbes to adhere to denture surfaces.

So, in a technical sense, a change in roughness was identified. But on a practical level, it wasn’t great enough to be a major concern.

▲ Section references – Verran, Ural, de Sousa Porta, Salles, Paranhos, Quirynen

iii) Denture strength.

There are studies that have suggested that the use of bleach-based soaks may affect the flexural strength of denture plastics.

In fact, the American College of Prosthodontists’ guidelines for denture cleaning that we refer to above mention this point. This seems to be their reason for suggesting that the use of bleach-based soaks should be limited to 10 minutes.

While the publication date of their blanket recommendation (no specific bleach concentration is mentioned) is fairly recent (2011), it seems to be based on a reference that reviewed related dental literature published between 1936 and 1983.

At this point in time …

A paper by Rodrigues, which included the evaluation of 0.5% sodium hypochlorite denture cleaner (our homemade mixture above), stated that

One of the studies we refer to above, Paranhos, found no changes in the flexural strength of denture resins (plastics) when exposed to a simulated 180 days of overnight (8-hour) soakings in 0. 5% sodium hypochlorite cleaner (roughly 50 times our recommended soaking time above).

The same can be said for Salles. This study simulated the use of a 0.5% solution for 20 minutes a day for 5 years and found no significant changes in denture flexural strength.

Overall, we’re not so sure that this issue isn’t overblown. But staying within the guidelines we’ve outlined above, for the specific reasons we’ve discussed, seems both an appropriate and effective method for cleaning dentures.

▲ Section references – Rodrigues, Salles, Paranhos, Felton

v) Metal corrosion.

! An important consideration in some cases.

Studies have shown that bleach-based soaking solutions do tend to tarnish and spot corrode metal (cobalt-chromium alloy) components of full and partial dentures (Felipucci).

The extent to which this effect will take place is likely a function of bleach concentration, soak duration and the composition of the metal involved. (The cobalt-chromium alloy mentioned above is frequently used in partial denture construction. )

It’s possible that this effect is avoided when soaking sessions are limited to 10 minutes or less. But before employing this tactic you should consult with your dentist.

▲ Section references – Felipucci

vi) Affects on denture reline materials.

! An important consideration in some cases.

The information we discuss above generally applies to false teeth made by a dental laboratory (high-quality materials, optimal fabrication process under ideal conditions).

The world of dental relines is entirely different. With relines, the process used to place them varies widely (chairside vs. laboratory), as does the type of material used (some have superior physical properties while others don’t, some set hard while others remain soft). And due to this variability, some relines hold up to certain types of cleansers better than others.

That means, at the time of your reline, it’s always best to ask your dentist if it’s compatible with the denture cleaner you currently use (homemade or not).

2) Vinegar-based soaks.

Household vinegar can be used to make a natural denture cleanser that’s effective for both disinfecting and, especially, removing tartar.

Disinfection.

• Vinegar-based soaking solutions have been shown to be effective in killing microorganisms that reside on the surface of false teeth. However, possibly less so than the homemade bleach solution described above.
• Some studies (but not all) have concluded that vinegar disinfection is the method of choice for Candida albicans (a common oral fungus).

▲ Section references – Yildirim-Bicer, Jafari

Tartar removal.

The acidic nature of vinegar makes it especially effective in removing tartar (built-up mineral deposits and associated stain). These deposits, which often have a tan to brown coloration, frequently build up in denture crevices. (These locations are frequently only accessible to chemical cleansing.)

• Smaller deposits may dissolve away entirely. Thicker buildup may only soften up but can then be brushed off.
• It may take repeated cycles of soaking and brushing to remove especially heavy deposits.

Vinegar can be used to make denture cleaner.

(Regular white vinegar, like you use in your kitchen.)

a) How to prepare and use.

• Prior to soaking, false teeth should be brushed (inside and out) to remove any soft or loose debris (see link above).
• A soaking solution can be made using white (household) vinegar. (The kind of vinegar found in most kitchens.) The following studies used the concentrations and soaking durations shown below.

  a) Infrequent / periodic cleanings –

  Soaking duration: 10 minutes. Vinegar concentration 100% (full-strength) to 50% (equal dilution with tap water). (Johnston, Yildirim-Bicer)

  Soaking duration: 30 minutes. Vinegar concentration 50% (equal dilution with tap water). (Yadav)

  b) Daily use – Soaking duration: Up to 8 hours. 10% vinegar (a 1 to 9 dilution with tap water). (Pinto)

• With infrequent or periodic cleaning, brushing your denture again after soaking may remove stubborn mineral deposits and staining that still remain but have softened up.
• When finished, thoroughly rinse your denture with cool tap water.
• If your denture is not returned to your mouth, you should store it fully immersed in water.

▲ Section references – Johnston, Yildirim-Bicer, Yadav, Pinto

b) Precautions / concerns with vinegar-based denture cleaners.

While there’s nothing new about using vinegar as a natural tartar remover and disinfectant for false teeth, it certainly seems to be less studied than other homemade alternatives. The following is all we have to report.

i) Color and strength changes.

Different than with bleach-based denture cleaners (see above), we did not encounter any studies that brought up the issue of color or flexural strength changes in denture plastics due to the use of a vinegar soak.

ii) Surface roughness.

Once again, different than with bleach soaks, we found little discussion about an increase in denture surface roughness due to the use of vinegar solution.

One study (Yildirim-Bicer) evaluated the use of both 100 and 50% vinegar solutions for the disinfection of false teeth using a 10-minute soak. And this paper did make mention of the issue of denture surface roughness. But it made no mention of problematic effects created by using these soaks.

Our reference above that evaluated the use of a 10% vinegar solution, 8 hours a day for a period of 45 days (Pinto) unfortunately did not make mention of this topic.

At a minimum, periodic/infrequent use of a vinegar soak seems to be a reasonable choice (like for periodic tartar removal). There are probably no concerns with the use of low-concentration vinegar solutions over the long-term, although shorter soaks as opposed to overnight might make the better choice until more information becomes available.

▲ Section references – Yildirim-Bicer, Pinto

iii) Metal corrosion.

We spent quite a bit of time researching this subject. It seems that it’s bleach-based soaks (see above) as opposed to vinegar ones that tend to tarnish the metal components of partial dentures (Nassif).

This effect (or lack thereof) may be dependent on the type of metal (alloy) used. So it only makes sense to confirm the use of a vinegar soak with your dentist.

▲ Section references – Nassif

iv) Affects on denture reline materials.

! An important consideration in some cases.

As discussed above for bleach-based soaks, the materials used to reline false teeth aren’t always as durable as the plastic originally used to fabricate them. For this reason, after having a reline you should confirm your choice of denture cleaner with your dentist.

3) Consider using a multi-solution approach.

Wendt evaluated a number of soaks frequently used to disinfect dentures and came to the conclusion that the best results were obtained when a combination approach was used. The idea is that it takes using a series of solutions (each of which excels in targeting different types of microorganisms) to reach maximum cleanliness.

We’ve updated the regimen outlined in that paper, so it’s more in alignment with what today is considered best practices.

1. A bleach-based solution combined with enzymatic dishwasher soap (Cascade). – Instructions given above.
2. A vinegar-based soak. – Instructions given above.
3. A sodium bicarbonate solution – One teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in eight ounces of water, 30-minute soak, rinse thoroughly afterward. (Use this technique instead of brushing with baking soda, here’s why.)

While it’s not expected that someone would necessarily take the time to perform this routine each day, they might choose to use it on selected ones.

Another approach would be to continually rotate through each of these cleaning solutions, a different one each time. Or possibly use a bleach-based soak most of the time, and the others routinely but less frequently.

▲ Section references – Wendt

There are better choices for denture cleaning than mouthwash.

4) Using mouthwash as a denture cleaner.

It’s not uncommon for people to use mouthwash as a soak for their false teeth. The reasoning associated with this choice is typically twofold.

• Mouthwash usually has a pleasant flavor and odor.
• Some mouthwashes make antibacterial claims.

There are better choices.

Mouthwash has not been shown to be especially effective against the types of microorganisms that typically inhabit denture surfaces. This is true even for those oral rinses that make an antimicrobial claim. As an example, a study by Buergers found it ineffective in denture disinfection.

The other types of cleaning solutions discussed on our pages (either homemade or store-bought) tend to make a much better choice.

▲ Section references – Buergers

Don’t dentists use mouthwash to clean false teeth?

You may have noticed that after your dentist’s office has finished cleaning your dentures they taste like mouthwash was used.

In actuality, they’ve probably used a professional cleaner, most of which have a pretty bad taste. As a last step, they’ve had their dental staff place your false teeth in a glass of mouthwash and water (50:50), just so there’s no question that they’ll taste pleasant.

So yes, after a professional cleaning your dentures may have a mouthwash taste. But don’t confuse that issue with thinking that that’s what has been used to actually clean them.

Best practices for denture cleaning.

Due to the wide range of materials that are used in denture fabrication, you should …

a) Always discuss your plans with your dentist.

Your dentist occupies an especially unique position. Not only do they know precisely what materials have been used in making your false teeth but they get to see how they hold up to the various cleaning methods their other patients use. Make sure you tap into their knowledge.

b) Always test before you soak.

The plastics used to make false teeth are chosen, in part, because they tend not to absorb tastes and flavors. And this fact makes it unlikely that cleaning solutions that have a bad taste (i.e. bleach, vinegar) will create a problem.

But because it’s such a simple step to take, you should always perform short trial soaks with any new cleanser, just to make sure. This is especially true for appliances that have been relined.

c) General rules.

Best practices for denture cleaning include:

• Don’t expose your dentures to elevated temperatures. Doing so may cause dimensional distortion, thus affecting their fit. Soaking and rinsing should be done in room temperature solutions.
• Always keep your dentures wet. That means in your mouth or fully immersed in their soaking solution or just plain water. If they dry out, their fit may change. (Related content: Maximum temperatures for denture plastics.)

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Page details –Last update:  August 14, 2019Authored by  Animated-Teeth Staff Dentist

 Page references sources: 

Buergers R, et al. Efficacy of denture disinfection methods in controlling Candida albicans colonization in vitro.

de Sousa Porta SR, et al. Evaluation of sodium hypochlorite as a denture cleanser: a clinical study.

Felipucci D, et al. Effect of Different Cleansers on the Surface of Removable Partial Dentures.

Felton D, et al. Evidence-based guidelines for the care and maintenance of complete dentures.

Gulfema E, et al. Colour stability of denture base materials after soaked in different aging solutions.

Jafari AA, et al. Vinegar as a Removing Agent of Candida albicans From Acrylic Resin Plates.

Johnston C, et al. Vinegar: Medicinal Uses and Antiglycemic Effect.

Nassif J. Instructions for patients — a positive factor in removable partial denture service.

Paranhos H, et al. Color Stability, Surface Roughness and Flexural Strength of an Acrylic Resin Submitted to Simulated Overnight Immersion in Denture Cleansers.

Pinto T, et al. Vinegar as an Antimicrobial Agent for Control of Candida in Complete Denture Wearers.

Quirynen M, et al. The influence of surface free energy and surface roughness on early plaque formation. An in vivo study in man.

Rodrigues S, et al. Effect of chemical cleaning agents on the flexural strength of acrylic and hard denture line resins.

Salles MM, et al. Antimicrobial activity of complete denture cleanser solutions based on sodium hypochlorite and Ricinus communis – a randomized clinical study.

Ural C. Effect of Different Denture Cleansers on Surface Roughness of Denture Base Materials.

Verran J, et al. The effect of dentifrice abrasion on denture topography and the subsequent retention of microorganisms on abraded surfaces.

Wendt S, et al. Decontamination of Candida albicans infected denture material.

Yadav R, et al. Effectiveness of different denture cleansing methods on removal of biofilms formed in vivo.

Yildirim-Bicer AZ, et al. In vitro antifungal evaluation of seven different disinfectants on acrylic resins.

All reference sources for topic Complete and Partial Dentures.

How to clean dentures at home

Even the complete absence of teeth in the oral cavity is not a sentence. In modern conditions, dental prosthetics in Nizhny Novgorod can solve almost any dental problem.

But not only your own teeth need daily cleaning in the morning and evening. If you do not take care of the newly installed orthopedic structures, they will very quickly lose their appearance, darken from tea and coffee, and will soon become unusable. Therefore, the question of how to clean dentures from plaque at home is relevant for all people who know firsthand about prosthetics.

Plaque, which accumulates on both natural and artificial teeth, is a source of pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, it should be regularly disposed of. How to clean dentures and how often it should be done, the doctor should explain to the patient immediately after prosthetics:

1. Rinse with running or boiled water should be after each meal, unless a cream is used for fixation.
2. Only a special brush with double-sided bristles may be used for cleaning. This will prevent scratches from forming. If you use a regular brush, the surface will quickly become porous and loose, and the cost of removable dentures can be quite high.
3. Once a week it is recommended to soak the structure for several hours in a disinfectant solution. Special water-soluble tablets for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces can be purchased at a pharmacy.
4. To clean the dental systems more thoroughly, it is recommended to buy an irrigator. A powerful jet of water, supplied under pressure, allows you to extract pieces of food even from the most inaccessible places.

You can clean your dentures at home:

1. Vinegar. To do this, it is enough to dilute 1 tablespoon of 70% vinegar in 1 glass of water, dip the structure into the resulting solution and leave it in it overnight.
2. Essential oils. Pour 200 ml of water into a glass. Add 5 drops of lemon and tea tree oils to it. Dip the structure in the resulting solution for several hours.
3. Soda and lemon juice. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda and a few drops of lemon juice until a slurry is formed. Clean the structure with the prepared mixture once a month. This method is also suitable for whitening.

Dental laminar prosthesis deserves special attention, on the rough surface of which plaque constantly accumulates. Since plastic is very easy to scratch, it is only allowed to clean it with soft brushes using a paste that does not contain coarse abrasive particles.

The best way to clean dentures is an individual question. If finances allow, preference should be given to special products sold in pharmacies. But you can also use budget folk methods. The main thing is to provide orthopedic structures with the necessary care and maintenance of hygiene.

How and how to clean dentures from plaque at home

The life of a denture, as well as the health of the oral cavity, depend on regular care and compliance with storage rules. Poor care leads to the appearance of bacterial and pigment plaque, accompanied by bad breath. Violation of storage rules can lead to breakage of the orthopedic structure.

After a complete removable denture has been fitted, the prosthodontist explains to the patient how to care for him, incl. how to clean every day. For those who have forgotten, we will recall the main recommendations.

Daily Hygiene Care

Includes:

• Remove the prosthesis and rinse with warm running water. Be careful not to accidentally drop the orthotic into the sink and damage it.
• Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a soft-bristled toothbrush, then brush the artificial teeth in an up-and-down motion.

Did you know that?..

Cleaning a denture with a regular brush and paste will cause scratches and roughness on the denture. This contributes to the rapid formation of bacterial and pigment plaque on artificial teeth.

It is better to use a soft brush (it should say soft on the package) and choose a toothpaste with a low abrasiveness (on the package, look for RDA – abrasion factor). Pastes with an RDA of 20 to 50 are acceptable.

• Rinse again under running water to remove toothpaste residue.
• Use Korega’s solution (or equivalent) daily to remove deposits in hard to reach areas. After soaking in the solution, rinse thoroughly under warm running water.
• If you have your own teeth, don’t forget to brush them. Rinse your mouth regularly with an antiseptic.
• To improve mucosal adhesion, apply a little Corega special cream/gel to the prosthesis.

IMPORTANT!

If you use the same toothbrush for a long time when cleaning removable dentures, it may lose its original appearance and elasticity. And what’s even worse – to store a lot of harmful bacteria. Therefore, dentists recommend changing your toothbrush every 3 months. Maybe earlier, but not later.

However, it is not enough to clean your dentures regularly. They need to be disinfected periodically.

Weekly disinfection

A complete disinfection must be carried out every week. It kills 99.9% of all microbes on the surface of the orthopedic structure, removes fresh stains and darkening.

Disinfectants:

• Corega tablets. Dilute one tablet in one glass of warm water. Place the orthopedic structure there and leave for 5-15 minutes. Take it out, take a brush dipped in the same solution, and clean it. Then rinse well under running water.
• Ready solution Septolit Dental. It perfectly disinfects and removes harmful microorganisms. It is necessary to soak the prosthesis in the solution for 5 minutes, then rinse under running water. Do not reuse the used solution for disinfection of orthopedic structures.
• Folk remedies (least preferred). Dilute one tablespoon of 70% vinegar in one glass of water. Leave the prosthesis in the resulting solution overnight. It is not recommended to carry out such a procedure often, as this may reduce the strength of the structure. Essential oils are also used for disinfection. In a solution consisting of 200 ml of water and 5 drops of oil, the structure is lowered for 2-3 hours.

FACT

Removable dentures can be disinfected at home. But you need to do this with care when choosing ingredients. Some solutions can harm the prosthetic structure, such as whiteness. From it, the product may darken and lose its original shape.

Periodic cleaning of plaque and tartar

Why does pigment and tartar form?

Pigmentation or spots appear on dentures if the patient frequently drinks tea/coffee, smokes, or takes antibiotics. Also, age spots indicate insufficient quality daily cleaning of the prosthesis. Plaque and pigment particles cling to a cleaned artificial tooth more difficult.

The main cause of tartar formation is insufficient and irregular brushing. If regular plaque is not cleaned in time, it hardens and tartar forms.

How to remove pigment plaque and tartar?

If your dentures have a lot of plaque and even stone, there is a way to fix it. The ultrasonic bath does an excellent job of removing hard deposits. Using the bath is convenient and economical, because by purchasing it once, you can use it many times. Another plus of the ultrasonic bath is the 100% removal of bacteria. It breaks down dirt and washes away colorants without damaging the surface to be cleaned.

How to use the ultrasonic cleaner?

Put the prosthesis in the bath, pour enough warm water or special solution into it to completely cover it. Turn on the device for 5-10 minutes. The cleaning time depends on the degree of contamination of the orthopedic structure. Then rinse it with running water.

When buying a bath for home use, pay attention to:

• Wave frequency. To effectively clean the prosthesis without damaging the microrelief of the surface, choose a bath with a wavelength of 35 kHz to 50 kHz. Look for this information in the product description.
• Device capacity. To increase the life of the bath and avoid possible breakages, choose a size slightly larger than required.
• Heating option. The warmer the water, the better and faster the cleaning. The optimum temperature is 50-60 degrees Celsius.
• Presence of an electronic or mechanical timer. The presence of this option allows you to do other things while the bath is running.

Can a removable denture be whitened?

No. When prosthetics in a dental clinic, the orthopedist chooses the shade of new artificial teeth that best suits the patient. When the dentures are ready, their color can no longer be changed. Therefore, after prolonged use of the structure, when it darkens a little, it will not work to bleach it.

Whitening toothpaste will also not help, and even hurt. When using it, scratches begin to appear on dentures, where plaque subsequently accumulates.

However, in order to return the prosthetic structure to its original appearance and color, it can be slightly lightened. Dentists recommend lightening a darkened prosthesis in an ultrasonic bath. It breaks down hard stone and pigments that darken the structure. Additionally disinfects the product.

You can lighten the prosthesis at home by buying a bath in a pharmacy. But if it is heavily soiled that you cannot deal with at home, seek help from a dental clinic.

INTERESTING FACT

To keep the original color of the prosthesis longer, try to reduce the consumption of coloring drinks and foods, stop smoking, and avoid sudden changes in temperature.

How to properly store a denture?

An important question, since the service life of the orthopedic structure depends on it. Let’s start with the fact that the tissues of the prosthetic bed (the place on which the prosthesis is fixed) need regular rest, at least 6 hours a day. During the adaptation period, which lasts 2-3 weeks, it is recommended not to remove the orthopedic structure. After getting used to it, you need to remove it at night and store it in the right way.

How to store a removable denture at night?

• First clean it with a brush and paste, then rinse thoroughly under warm running water.
• Gently dry the structure with a soft towel.
• Wrap with a cotton napkin and leave overnight in a clean and dry container or box that is hermetically sealed.
• In the morning, wash gently with warm water before putting it on. So it is easier and more comfortable to insert it into the oral cavity.
• If desired, the removable structure can be stored in a container with a disinfectant solution or warm boiled water. In this case, the prosthesis does not need to be washed in the morning.

IMPORTANT!

To avoid deformation of the prosthesis, do not store it in hot water.

Where is the best place to store removable dentures?

It all depends on the type of prosthesis.