If you are looking for solutions to rebuild your grin after losing several or all your teeth, dentures are a fantastic option. They’re so versatile that your dentist can provide a full or partial set as necessary to restore your ability to eat and speak more like you used to. If you’ve never had them before, it’s natural to have plenty of questions about how to use and maintain them properly. One thing many patients want to know is whether they can brush their dentures without taking them out first. If you’ve been wondering, keep reading to learn the answer!
Do I Have to Remove My Dentures to Brush Them?
It’s tempting after a long, stressful day to brush your dentures while they’re still in your mouth and then head right to bed as soon as possible. While you are physically able to brush them without taking them out, you may come to regret it if you do. That’s because harmful bacteria love to thrive in the tight spaces between your restoration and your gums. They can cause gum disease or infect your jawbone, which spells bad news for your dentures. The best way to thoroughly eradicate them is by scrubbing all the surfaces of your dentures, which you can’t do while they’re still in your mouth.
Although you’d probably be okay if you brushed your dentures in your mouth occasionally, it’s important to care for them properly to continue to make the most of them.
How Should I Clean My Dentures?
The most effective method to eradicate unwanted food particles and germs from your restoration is by removing them from your mouth, first. Some additional tips include:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled brush. Hard toothbrushes can be abrasive and damage your artificial teeth. Take care to remove any bits of food that may have been caught in the grooves.
- Use special denture cleaning paste. Regular toothpaste can also harm the materials so use a paste that’s intended for use with dentures.
- Cleanse your mouth, too. If you have any remaining teeth, brush and floss them as usual twice daily. If not, you can wash your gums by gently rubbing them down with a fresh, damp towel.
It’s important to keep your dentures in good shape so you can enjoy meals and converse with others. Regular cleanings can keep them in excellent condition for years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Charles Parker has more than 4 decades of experience enhancing people’s lives by improving their oral health. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and then achieved his DDS from the University of Texas Health Science Center. Using state-of-the-art technology, he focuses on patient comfort and providing individualized treatment plans to meet your needs. If you’re worried about the state of your dentures, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (903) 935-6351.