Dentures remain a popular way to rebuild your smile after tooth loss because they restore so much of your ability to eat and speak with ease. However, it’s important to care for them properly to continue to reap the many benefits they provide.
Many patients have questions about the best way to keep their artificial teeth clean. For example, one common inquiry is whether it’s okay to brush your dentures while they’re still in your mouth. If you’ve been wondering, keep reading to find the answer!
Can I Brush My Dentures in My Mouth?
It’s not unusual for people to grow frustrated with frequently removing and reinserting their restoration. If you feel similarly, then you might be tempted to streamline your at-home dental hygiene routine by leaving them in your mouth to brush them.
While it might be okay to do so occasionally, most dentists don’t recommend it. Standard toothpaste is abrasive and can damage the materials your dentures are made from. It’s better to use a soft-bristled brush and mild dish soap to clean them, which you may not want to put in your mouth.
Moreover, bits of food and germs in your mouth can collect on the underside of your artificial teeth, which are pressed against your gums. If you don’t take them out to clean all surfaces, you’re at an increased risk of developing gum disease or other concerns. The best way to prevent potential problems is to take your dentures out of your mouth twice daily to thoroughly wash them.
How Else Can I Maintain My Dentures?
Some additional tips for caring for your restoration include:
- Rinse after eating. Hold your prosthetic under gently running water when you’re done with meals to get rid of any pieces of food that attract bacteria.
- Soak them at night. You might feel tempted to sleep with your dentures in your mouth, too, but your gums need a break from the constant pressure of supporting them all day. Soaking them in a glass of water or a special solution can kill up to 99% of unwanted germs.
- Clean your mouth. You don’t want to put your dentures into an unclean mouth, so before reinserting them, take a moment to gently brush your gums, the roof of your mouth, and your tongue.
- Notice changes. Pay attention to your oral health so if there are changes, like your gums becoming more inflamed or raw, you can contact your dentist to address them before they progress.
Although it’s fine to brush your dentures in your mouth once in a while, removing them is the best way to ensure they’re thoroughly cleaned.
About the Author
Dr. Sarah Esparza has decades of experience helping people of all ages build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. She earned a Bachelor of Science from Fairfield University and then her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Maryland Dental School in Baltimore. Now, she is dedicated to giving every patient one-on-one attention so she can provide individualized treatments to meet their unique oral care needs. She partners with the best local specialists to provide accurate, lifelike restorations meant to last. If you’re seeking tooth replacements and need a consultation, you can request an appointment on the website or call (757) 499-4707.