Dentures can afford people who have lost their teeth a new way to enjoy the things they love, from talking with friends to smiling for the camera. However, to get the most out of them, you have to know a little more about how to take care of them.
Have you noticed your dentures smelling a little less-than-pleasant? There may be a very good reason that’s the case, and there could be something you can do about it. Here’s a little bit of information about denture care that may help you.
Why do my Dentures Smell?
You might not think much about it, but the human mouth is absolutely full of bacteria. If your dental hygiene starts to slip, it’s possible for that bacteria to start to get a little bit out of control.
In the case of dentures, that often presents itself as an unpleasant smell that you have a hard time getting rid of. If you find that you have perpetual bad breath, or that your dentures have a strong odor when you take them out, it may be a good idea to think about whether your denture hygiene is where it ought to be.
How to Keep Your Dentures Clean
If you want to fight the bad breath that comes from bacterial infection, there are a few things that you can do to keep your dentures clean:
- Remove and rinse dentures after meals. Leftover food particles are one of the biggest contributors to bacterial growth.
- Brush thoroughly after you remove your dentures. After all, bacteria can still grow on your teeth and gums as well.
- Take out your dentures every night before bed, and soak them in a denture cleaning solution overnight. This not only disinfects your prosthetic but can give your gums an opportunity to rest as well.
- Be careful with your dentures, as wear and tear can potentially cause chips and cracks that become breeding grounds for bacteria.
- Brush your dentures every day with a soft-bristled brush to remove any plaque buildup.
Finally, be sure to see your dentist often; they’ll not only help you care for your dentures, but ensure that your bad breath isn’t due to a more serious oral health problem.
About Our Practice
At Longmont Complete Dentistry, we’re happy to say that we put our patients at the center of everything that we do, ensuring that they feel heard and understood every step of the way. Everyone on our dental team works hard to ensure that our patients receive the high-quality, attentive dental care that we believe they deserve.
If you have any questions about maintaining your dentures, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (303) 772-7000.