Can You Brush Dentures While They’re in Your Mouth?

As you get used to them, treating dentures like natural teeth is easy. After all, they can help you eat, speak, and confidently smile! Still, you shouldn’t just brush dentures while they’re in your mouth. You’ll need to take them out at times for more effective cleaning. As for the reasons behind these facts, your Mesquite dentist is here to explain. Read on to learn why dentures must be brushed outside your mouth and other ways to keep them clean.

In-Mouth Brushing Isn’t Enough

Ultimately, brushing dentures while they’re in your mouth isn’t a bad thing. The practice won’t harm your new teeth if you use the right tools. In fact, you might even remove some potentially harmful plaque and food debris.

All the same, in-mouth denture brushing isn’t enough. Your toothbrush won’t reach the areas obscured by your oral tissues. As a result, this method leaves germs and “leftovers” that can build up over time. Such materials will then cause dental problems – gum disease, bad breath, etc. – when left unchecked.

In contrast, outside-mouth brushing is much more effective. It thoroughly frees your dentures of harmful bacteria and other debris. Plus, all it takes is a soft-bristled toothbrush and the right brand of toothpaste. It’ll then leave you with a cleaner and longer-lasting oral appliance.

How Should You Clean Dentures?

To clean your dentures effectively, you’ll need more than just outside-mouth brushing. Other tips you should try out include:

• Cleaning Protection: Whenever you clean your dentures, do so while over a basin of water or a towel. That way, you can ensure the dentures won’t break if they fall.
• Rest-of-Mouth Brushing: To keep fewer bacteria from reaching your dentures, remember to clean the rest of your mouth. In particular, brush your gums, tongue, and palate every morning and evening.
• Use Vinegar: Counter tartar growth on your dentures by soaking them in vinegar. However, dilute the mixture first — make it one part vinegar to four parts water.
• Nightly Denture Soaks: When you go to bed each night, remove your dentures and soak them in a glass of water or branded solution. Doing so will keep the prosthetics moist while you sleep.

As lifelike as they are, you shouldn’t only brush dentures while they’re in your mouth. Instead, try out the tricks above – they’ll ensure your new teeth lead to a flourishing mouth.

About the Practice

Dental Impressions is based in Mesquite, TX. Led by Dr. Sweeta Walia, our practice seeks to give each patient the best smile possible. We thus offer high-quality dental care, including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments tailored to your mouth. Our team can also perform emergency services like tooth extractions and root canal therapy. For more details or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (972)-288-3200.