All surfaces of the oral cavity—including teeth, orthodontic appliances, and dentures—have a tendency to become coated with plaque, which is a transparent, sticky film that attracts bacteria and food particles. When oral care is not performed regularly, plaque begins to harden, which makes it difficult to remove. This can result in tooth and gum disease.
As is the case with natural teeth, brushing your dentures and gums at least once a day helps remove food particles and plaque, which will maintain good oral health. Doing so also keeps denture stains and bad breath odors at bay. Although dentures serve to replace the functions of natural teeth, there are some key differences to be aware of when caring for your removable pearly whites to keep them bright and long lasting.
The most effective way to keep your dentures clean is by daily brushing, in combination with soaking the dentures in a chemical solution made for dentures. In addition, cleaning your gums and oral cavity on a daily basis is also important for oral health. Finally, staying in contact with your dentist regularly is important to ensure that your dentures and oral health are optimal; dentists not only perform cleanings but can also spot early signs of diseases, such as oral cancer.
RESOURCES:
Academy of General Dentistry
http://www.agd.org/consumer/
American Dental Association
http://www.ada.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Dental Association
http://www.cda-adc.ca/
The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association
http://www.cdha.ca/
References:
Dentures. American Dental Association website. Available at: http://www.ada.org/2996.aspx?currentTab=1. Accessed November 17, 2010.
Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Oral Health website. Available at: http://www.idph.state.il.us/.
Last reviewed November 2010 by Brian Randall, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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