Why It’s Best to Remove Your Dentures Before Brushing

Wearing dentures can be one of the most freeing feelings for someone who has experienced tooth loss. The ability to eat, smile, and speak with greater ease are all things that patients with new teeth can once again freely enjoy. And part of living life with these customized prosthetics is knowing how to take proper care of them so that they will last longer. If you have dentures, you may be wondering if it’s okay to brush your teeth while they’re still in your mouth. Although it might seem harmless, a dentist is here to explain why it’s best to take them out first.

Why You Should Remove Your Dentures

When preparing to clean your teeth, it might seem like a waste of time to take them out and clean them separately from the rest of your mouth. However, there are a few reasons why this practice is highly recommended, some of which include:

• You need to be able to clean all surfaces. When using your toothbrush, trying to reach all the nooks and crannies within your denture can be difficult if they’re still inside your mouth. By removing them, you can use appropriate tools to remove food particles and give your teeth a thorough cleaning.
• Your gums must be properly treated. Gum disease is still a real possibility while wearing dentures, so removing them and adequately cleaning your soft oral tissues is essential.
• If you have remaining healthy teeth and wear a partial, you’ll want to use fluoridated toothpaste on these teeth but not only your denture, as it is likely to be highly abrasive and can damage your prosthetic.
• When going to bed, you’ll need to soak your dentures anyway, so removing them is something you’ll have to do.

How to Properly Clean Your Dentures

When preparing to clean your new teeth, there are a few helpful tips that can make the process easier and less cumbersome over time. You’ll want to take proper care of them to avoid causing any accidental damage to your custom prosthetics.

A few tips to keep in mind when cleaning include:

• Placing a towel in the basin of your sink. This will protect your dentures should you accidentally drop them.
• Use a denture brush to ensure more complete and effective cleaning of all surfaces.
• If you discover tartar accumulations on your dentures, soak them in diluted vinegar.
• Make sure to brush all surfaces of your mouth before re-inserting your dentures. This includes your gums, any remaining healthy teeth, your tongue, and the roof of your mouth.

By following these steps and adhering to the instructions provided to you by your dentist, you can expect your dentures to last longer so you can smile for years to come.

About the Author
Dr. Jason Tubo is a dentist in Whitinsville who earned his dental doctorate from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. Awarded Mastership with the Academy of General Dentistry in 2017, he was also awarded Fellowship status with the American Dental Implant Association in 2010 and Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry in 2014. At Whitinsville Family Dentistry, he and his colleagues work together to help patients suffering from tooth loss take back their smiles and confidence. If you need help taking better care of your new teeth, contact us via our website or call (508) 234-8107.