After many months, you can become so accustomed to your dentures that you leave them in practically all the time. While these prosthetics are important to restoring your oral function you do need to give your gums a rest. This is especially true when you go through your oral hygiene routine. But what’s so bad about brushing your dentures in your mouth? Continue reading to learn how this seemingly innocuous task can cause several dental issues.
Back to Basics
Before tackling the issue of in-mouth denture brushing, you may need to know the basics of oral bacteria and hygiene. As you chew your food, it breaks down into smaller pieces. The bacteria in your mouth help with breaking down the food, but in exchange, they form a film across your teeth called plaque. This substance slowly inflames and infects everything it touches in your mouth.
Can You Brush Your Dentures in Your Mouth?
While it’s technically possible to brush your dentures while you wear them, it’s generally not recommended. Doing so can lead to inadequate and aggressive cleaning that can damage your gums and lead to issues.
Even though your prosthetics can’t decay like natural teeth, bacteria can still cling to them. If you don’t thoroughly remove it from every surface, it can cause gum disease, infection, and foul-smelling dentures.
Additionally, it’s harder to feel when you’re pressing too hard against your prosthetics. Aggressive brushing can both damage your prosthetics and make small cuts in the soft tissues of your mouth causing discomfort.
How Should I Clean My Dentures?
Instead of brushing your dentures in your mouth, follow these steps:
- Take your dentures out to view all surfaces.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild, colorless soap to clean the teeth and base on every surface.
- Rinse your dentures with cold water to remove all the soap.
- Brush your gums, cheeks, tongue, palate, and any remaining teeth you have with regular toothpaste and rinse.
- Soak your dentures in a cold glass of water or denture solution overnight.
Following these steps will ensure your mouth stays bacteria-free and your dentures remain fresh!
So, while it may seem convenient to brush your prosthetics while wearing them, it can do more harm than good! With excellent oral care and proper cleaning methods, you can ensure the longevity and comfort of your dentures while preserving your smile for a lifetime.
About the Practice
When you have questions about your dentures in San Ramon, Gale Ranch Family Dental has a plethora of dental experts available to help. Whatever your needs, they can rise to meet them with a customized treatment plan and first-class patient care. Call (925) 648-8881 to schedule a denture consultation or visit the website to explore a full menu of treatments and services.