Dentures are an effective and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth, and restoring both function and confidence. However, to keep them comfortable, durable, and hygienic, following a proper care routine is essential. Poor denture maintenance can lead to staining, bad odours, gum infections, and premature wear, reducing their effectiveness and lifespan.
At Purley Dental Care, we understand that adjusting to dentures can take time, and caring for them correctly is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover daily cleaning routines, proper storage, common denture problems, and expert tips to ensure your dentures remain in excellent condition for years to come.
Taking care of your dentures isn’t just about keeping them looking clean—it’s vital for your oral health and overall comfort. Without proper care, dentures can harbour bacteria, develop plaque buildup, and cause irritation or infections in the gums and mouth.
✔ Prevents oral infections – Unclean dentures can lead to bacterial and fungal infections like stomatitis, which causes redness, irritation, and soreness in the mouth.
✔ Reduces staining and bad breath – Daily cleaning removes plaque, food debris, and odour-causing bacteria that can lead to persistent bad breath.
✔ Improves comfort and fit – Dentures that are well cared for maintain their proper shape, ensuring they fit comfortably and don’t irritate.
✔ Extends the lifespan of dentures – Proper maintenance prevents warping, cracking, and surface wear, helping dentures last longer before needing a replacement.
✔ Supports overall oral health – Even if you wear full dentures, gum health is still important, as bacteria and plaque can build up in the mouth.
Neglecting denture hygiene can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even systemic health issues, as bacteria from an unclean mouth can enter the bloodstream. A consistent denture care routine is key to preventing these complications.
Keeping your dentures clean is essential for oral hygiene, comfort, and longevity. Denture care differs from caring for natural teeth, so following the right steps is crucial.
Each time you eat, remove your dentures and rinse them under lukewarm running water. This washes away food particles and prevents bacteria buildup.
✔ Why it’s important: Prevents plaque, stains, and bad odours.
✔ Why it’s important: Removes bacteria, plaque, and stains that cause infections and bad breath.
Even if you wear full dentures, it’s important to clean your mouth:
✔ Why it’s important: Prevents gum disease and ensures your mouth stays healthy.
Dentures must remain moist to retain their shape and prevent cracking.
✔ Why it’s important: It helps remove bacteria and prevents dentures from becoming brittle.
Before putting dentures back in, rinse them well to remove any cleaning solution residue, which can cause irritation.
✔ Why it’s important: Some denture cleansers contain chemicals that shouldn’t be swallowed.
Dentures can become discoloured over time due to food, drinks, and lifestyle habits. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
✔ Limit staining foods and drinks – Coffee, tea, red wine, curry, and berries can all stain dentures.
✔ Use denture cleaning tablets – These help lift stains and eliminate bacteria.
✔ Quit smoking – Tobacco stains dentures and increases the risk of gum disease.
✔ Stay hydrated – A dry mouth leads to bad breath, so drink plenty of water.
If dentures become stained, avoid bleach-based or harsh cleaning products, as they can weaken the material.
Proper storage is essential to prevent damage and maintain denture shape.
✔ Always store dentures in water or a denture solution when not in use to prevent drying out.
✔ Avoid hot water, as it can warp dentures and affect their fit.
✔ Use a protective denture case when travelling to keep them safe from damage.
✔ Keep dentures out of reach of pets and children—many denture wearers report losing them to curious dogs!
Following these steps ensures your dentures stay in perfect condition and last as long as possible.
Adjusting to eating and speaking with dentures takes time, but these tips can help:
✔ Start with soft foods – Mashed potatoes, soups, and yoghurt are easier to chew.
✔ Cut food into small pieces – This makes chewing more manageable.
✔ Use both sides of your mouth – Chewing evenly helps keep dentures stable.
✔ Avoid sticky or hard foods – Caramel, nuts, and tough meats can damage dentures or cause discomfort.
✔ Practice speaking aloud – Read out loud to get used to forming words.
✔ Speak slowly and clearly – This allows your tongue to adjust to the dentures.
✔ Use a denture adhesive if needed – If dentures slip while talking, a small amount of adhesive can help stabilise them.
With practice and patience, wearing dentures will soon feel natural.
Even with proper care, some people experience common denture issues. Here’s how to solve them:
✔ Denture slipping or feeling loose – A denture adhesive can help, but if the fit changes, visit your dentist for an adjustment.
✔ Gum irritation or soreness – Rinse with salt water and ensure your dentures are clean and well-fitted.
✔ Cracks or breakage – Never attempt to repair dentures yourself. See your dentist for professional repairs or replacements.
Regular dental check-ups help prevent these issues and ensure your dentures always fit comfortably.
Dentures don’t last forever. Over time, they can become loose, worn, or discoloured.
✔ Loose fit causing discomfort
✔ Visible cracks or thinning
✔ Difficulty chewing or speaking
✔ Persistent sore spots in the mouth
On average, dentures last 5–10 years, but regular dental visits help determine when a replacement is necessary.
If you need advice on denture care, adjustments, or replacements, our expert team at Purley Dental Care is here to help. We provide custom-fit dentures, professional cleaning guidance, and routine check-ups to ensure your oral health remains in top condition.
Call us today to schedule a consultation and keep your dentures in perfect shape!
