Dentures (or dentures) are devices that replace missing teeth and help you lead a normal life. It is important to keep them clean, as they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi that cause gum inflammation and bad breath. Many people want them not to get stained for cosmetic reasons as well. Do you want to keep a fresh and white smile? Keep reading.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Preventing Stains
Step 1. When drinking sodas that cause stains, use a straw
Tea, coffee, fizzy drinks, fruit juices and fruit smoothies (such as berries) should be drunk with a straw. In this way you minimize the contact between the teeth and the liquid, preventing stains especially on the incisors.
Step 2. Stop smoking
Tobacco stains your denture, so get rid of cigarettes if you can. At least try to limit the number.
Step 3. Rinse your dentures with running water after drinking or eating, especially if you have consumed coffee, tea or wine
If you can't do this, drink a glass of water to try to remove the dyes
Step 4. Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables
The coloring action of some foods such as berries, tomatoes, soy sauce and balsamic vinegar can be counterbalanced by crunchy foods such as apples and celery. These are foods that clean the dentures naturally.
Step 5. Brush your dentures well
You should brush it at least twice a day, as you would with your natural teeth. Make sure you reach all parts of the dentures, but don't push too hard - you could break them.
- Buy a denture-specific toothbrush.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard ones can scratch dentures and reduce their shine.
Step 6. Immerse the prosthesis in water overnight
When you go to bed, remove your dentures and put them in a glass of water or in its specific container filled with water. This will soften any plaque and food residue that could stain it.
- Do not put the dentures in boiling water, the heat will deform them.
- Do not use any other liquid besides water. Prolonged exposure to soaps and detergents spoil it.
Step 7. Ask about ultrasonic cleaning
When you go to the dentist, talk to him about it. Your doctor may be equipped for this treatment which, strange as it may seem, is the most effective in removing stains and preventing deposits.
Method 2 of 4: Remove Existing Stains with Cleaning Products
Step 1. Purchase a specific cleaner
If there are stains on your dentures, you can buy this product at the supermarket or pharmacy. It is available in cream, gel, liquid and works for both full and partial dentures.
Check that the product is approved by the Ministry of Health, so you can be sure of its effectiveness and safety
Step 2. Follow the manufacturer's instructions
Usually, gels and creams should be brushed on the dentures and then rinsed off; liquid products are actually in the form of tablets that sparkle and remove stains when in contact with water.
Step 3. Rinse carefully
Whichever product you choose, be sure to rinse your dentures with tap water and pat them dry before putting them back in your mouth.
Method 3 of 4: Clean the Denture with Bicarbonate and Water
Step 1. Mix water and baking soda to create a cleaning solution
If you don't want to buy a specific product, try combining a teaspoon of baking soda in 220 ml of water.
Step 2. Soak the denture in the solution and leave it for 20 minutes
Step 3. Rinse
After this period, rinse the dentures with tap water, do not rub it with any abrasive object.
Step 4. Pat it dry
Use a napkin or cloth to dry it.
Step 5. Repeat the process no more than once a week
You can use this technique to clean your denture regularly but not too often. Baking soda is slightly abrasive and may scratch the surface of the dentures. Limit yourself to one treatment per week.
Method 4 of 4: Clean the Denture with Vinegar and Water
Step 1. Mix equal parts vinegar and water
The vinegar contains acetic acid, effective against stains. Fill a bowl large enough to hold the dentures with this solution.
Step 2. Soak it in the solution for 8 hours or overnight
After this time, the vinegar should have dissolved the tartar.
If you can't wait 8 hours, you can do a shorter treatment. Even half an hour can be effective
Step 3. Brush your dentures
After removing it from the water and vinegar, use a soft bristle toothbrush and clean it as usual. Do not overdo it with an action that is too abrasive.
Step 4. Rinse
Use tap water.
Step 5. Pat dry with a napkin or cloth
Step 6. Repeat the process if you wish
Some people do this almost every night.
Advice
- Never use whitening products that are not designed for dentures. Bleach stains teeth, and whitening toothpastes (and other abrasives) corrode them.
- Never put dentures in the microwave or dishwasher. If you do, it could deform and no longer fit perfectly.
