Modern dentures have allowed millions of people to enjoy a complete smile after extensive tooth loss while also being incredibly comfortable to wear. While they are made of durable materials, they require regular cleaning and maintenance to remain aesthetically pleasing and odor-free. Here are a few reasons why your dentures might not be smelling so great lately and what you can do to keep them in great shape.
Why Do My Dentures Smell Bad?
While dentures are immune to tooth decay and other infections, they can still provide a safe haven for harmful oral bacteria. While the artificial teeth of a denture are usually made of porcelain or some other ceramic material, the base is made out of a porous substance called acrylic. Since this material is full of tiny holes, it can host billions of bacteria and trap food debris that cause unpleasant odors. If a patient doesn’t thoroughly clean their dentures regularly, they can wind up with really bad breath.
How Can I Keep My Dentures Odor-Free?
The key to odorless dentures is excellent hygiene. A good place to start is getting in the habit of removing and rinsing your dentures after eating to flush food debris and odor-causing bacteria away from the appliance. You should also rinse your mouth out with water for the same reason before putting them back in.
You should gently brush your dentures once a day with a soft brush and an approved non-abrasive denture cleaner. This will remove plaque, food debris, and lingering denture adhesive. Most people do this at night before soaking their appliance.
Your gums need at least eight hours away from your dentures every day to rest and clean themselves. To prevent your dentures from drying out, soak your appliance in water or an approved denture cleanser before you go to bed.
Whenever you remove your dentures over your sink, fill the basin with water and cover the countertop with folded towels to create a cushion in case you drop them. When you clean your dentures, be sure to use lukewarm water, as hot or cold water can cause your dentures to warp or break.
Properly cleaning your dentures can keep them free of the bacteria and food debris that cause unpleasant odors. This will allow you to smile brightly without worrying about any offending fragrances.
About the Author
Dr. Rober C. Fromuth earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2013 before completing a General Practice Residency at the Lehigh Valley Hospital in Pennsylvania. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the New Hampshire Dental Society. His office includes preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry in addition to denture services. For more information on taking proper care of your dentures, contact his office online or dial (603) 644-3368.