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Shelton, Washington, United States
NEW SMILE DENTURE CLINIC, 114 W. Alder St., Shelton, Washington, 360-426-8800,

Friday, August 13, 2010

How to Clean the Denture

1. The best way to clean the denture is over the sink. A denture can break when dropped on a hard surface, so always fill the sink with water.

2. Rinse your denture thoroughly to remove loose food particles. Use cool or warm water. Never use hot water, as it can warp your dentures.

3. Use a soft bristled denture brush or soft bristled toothbrush. Apply mild soap to a brush. Do not use ordinary toothpaste, bleach or vinegar. Toothpaste is an abrasive and will create micro scratches on the surface of the denture that will attract the bacteria; using harsh chemical solutions will cause porosity on the surface of the denture which will also attract the bacteria.

4. Brush all surfaces thoroughly. Try not to brush the inner surface of your denture too hard. A light brushing is sufficient. Remember that tartar or calculus can form on the denture just as on natural teeth, so it is very important to clean your denture daily.

5. After brushing, rinse your denture well under the running water to remove all traces of soap.

6. Brush your gums, tongue and palate with a soft-bristled regular toothbrush to remove plaque and stimulate circulation. Repeat that at least twice a day (morning and night). Rinsing your denture after every meal is highly recommended.

7. Always remove your denture for the night. Your gum tissue needs time to relax and rejuvenate. While you sleep at night, soak your denture in a container filled with water.

8. Keep your dentures away from children and pets. Cats and dogs are attracted to dentures left exposed around the house. At least 1% of dentures need repairs due to the damage done by pets. Sometimes the excess of the damage is so big, that the repair can not be done and the new denture has to be made. The expense can be easily avoided.