Keeping false teeth (dentures) clean is essential not only for oral health but also for maintaining their appearance and function. Over time, plaque and tartar can build up on dentures just as they do on natural teeth, leading to bad breath, irritation, and even infections.
Thankfully, knowing how to remove plaque from false teeth is simple, and it can easily be incorporated into your daily routine.
Why Do Plaque and Tartar Form on False Teeth?
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the surfaces of teeth—whether natural or false. If it’s not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which is more difficult to remove and can lead to gum irritation or infections.
Dentures, especially if worn daily, are exposed to food particles and bacteria, making them just as susceptible to plaque build-up as natural teeth. Here are some key reasons plaque can form on dentures:
- Food particles: Leftover food particles can get trapped between the dentures and gums or on the surface, providing a breeding ground for bacteria.
- Improper cleaning: If dentures aren’t cleaned thoroughly and regularly, plaque can build up quickly.
- Saliva: Even though dentures aren’t natural teeth, your mouth produces saliva that mixes with bacteria, leading to plaque formation.
- Smoking or coffee: Lifestyle habits like smoking or drinking coffee can contribute to stains and plaque buildup on false teeth.
Proper denture care is crucial not only to keep them looking good but also to ensure your oral health remains in top condition.
Simple Steps to Remove Plaque from False Teeth Properly
To remove plaque from false teeth, soak them in a denture cleaning solution and brush them gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Regular cleaning, combined with proper soaking and rinsing, helps prevent plaque buildup and ensures your dentures remain fresh and functional.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you keep your dentures clean and free from plaque and tartar buildup.
Step 1: Remove and Rinse Your Dentures
Before you begin cleaning your dentures, it’s essential to remove them and rinse them under running water.
- Rinse immediately after meals: As soon as you finish eating, take your dentures out and rinse them under warm (not hot) water. This helps wash away food particles and debris before they have a chance to turn into plaque.
- Be gentle: Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the denture material. Warm or cool water is ideal for rinsing.
This quick rinse will remove any loose food particles that could contribute to plaque buildup throughout the day.
Related Post: Expert-Approved Solutions to Remove Black Stains from Teeth
Step 2: Brush Your Dentures with a Soft-Bristle Brush
Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be brushed daily to remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria. However, using the right type of brush and technique is important to avoid damaging your dentures.
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush: Denture-specific brushes or soft-bristle toothbrushes are ideal for cleaning false teeth. These brushes are gentle yet effective at removing plaque from the acrylic material of the dentures.
- Brush all surfaces: Gently brush all surfaces of the dentures, including the outer surfaces, inner areas, and where the dentures come into contact with your gums.
- Use a non-abrasive cleaner: Regular toothpaste can be too harsh for dentures, as it contains abrasive materials that can scratch the surface. Instead, use a non-abrasive denture cleaner or mild dish soap.
Pro Tip: Brush your dentures over a soft towel or a basin of water. This way, if you accidentally drop them, you can avoid breakage or damage.
Step 3: Soak Your Dentures in a Denture Cleaning Solution
Soaking your dentures in a cleaning solution helps remove plaque that brushing may miss and keeps them fresh and disinfected.
- Use a denture cleaning tablet: Dissolve a denture cleaning tablet in a glass of water (or as instructed on the packaging) and let your dentures soak. These solutions are designed to kill bacteria, remove stains, and help break down plaque and tartar.
- Follow the recommended soaking time: Typically, dentures should be soaked for 15 to 30 minutes, but some tablets offer overnight soaking options. Always check the instructions for proper use.
Soaking your dentures daily not only removes plaque but also helps keep them smelling fresh and looking clean.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly After Soaking
After soaking, it’s essential to rinse your dentures thoroughly to remove any cleaning solution. Some denture cleaning products contain chemicals that aren’t meant to be ingested, so rinsing is a critical step.
- Rinse under running water: Hold the dentures under running water for at least 20 seconds to ensure all cleaning solution residue is removed.
Pro Tip: After rinsing, examine your dentures to make sure no food particles or debris remain on the surface. If necessary, gently brush any remaining areas.
Step 5: Store Dentures Properly When Not in Use
Proper storage of your dentures is just as important as cleaning them. When not in your mouth, dentures should be stored in a moist environment to prevent them from drying out and becoming misshapen.
- Store in water or denture solution: Always place your dentures in water or a denture-soaking solution when not in use, especially overnight. This helps maintain their shape and keeps them free from bacteria.
- Avoid hot water: As with rinsing, make sure the water isn’t too hot. Heat can cause the dentures to warp or lose their shape.
Proper storage helps ensure your dentures remain in good condition and ready for use each day.
How to Prevent Plaque from Building Up on False Teeth
While regular cleaning is essential for removing plaque, there are also steps you can take to prevent plaque from building up in the first place. Here are a few tips:
Clean Your Dentures Daily
Make cleaning your dentures a part of your daily routine. Plaque can form within hours, so consistent care is necessary to prevent buildup.
Rinse After Eating
Rinse your dentures after every meal, even if you don’t have time to brush them right away. This helps remove any food particles that could contribute to plaque formation.
Use an Antibacterial Denture Solution
In addition to brushing, use an antibacterial denture solution to soak your dentures and kill harmful bacteria that can lead to plaque and bad breath.
Clean Your Mouth Too
Remember to clean your gums, tongue, and any natural teeth after removing your dentures. A clean mouth helps reduce the chances of bacteria transferring to your dentures.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Even if you wear dentures, regular dental check-ups are essential. Your dentist can professionally clean your dentures, check for fit issues, and monitor the health of your gums.
Dealing with Tartar Build-Up on False Teeth
If plaque on dentures is left untreated, it can harden into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove. Once tartar forms, you may need professional help to fully clean your dentures.
- Don’t try to scrape off tartar yourself: Scraping or picking at tartar with sharp tools can damage the surface of your dentures, causing scratches where plaque can accumulate even faster.
- See your dentist for a professional cleaning: If tartar has formed, your dentist or denture specialist can remove it safely with specialized tools, ensuring your dentures stay in good condition.
Final Words
Learning how to remove plaque from false teeth is essential for maintaining both your oral health and the longevity of your dentures. By incorporating daily brushing, soaking, and proper storage into your routine, you can prevent plaque and tartar from building up and keep your dentures looking and feeling fresh.
Whether you’ve just started wearing dentures or have had them for years, regular care is crucial for keeping them clean, comfortable, and free from plaque. With these simple steps, you can ensure that your dentures continue to serve you well for many years to come.
