Dentures can certainly restore your smile, but over time, they can start to lose their luster. Just like natural teeth, your prosthetics can pick up stains from food, drinks, and daily wear. However, with the right care, you can keep them looking fresh and clean! Continue reading to find five simple tips to keep your dentures white and bright!
1. Brush Daily, Gently
Dentures need daily cleaning to prevent stains and plaque buildup. However, using regular toothpaste can be too abrasive, leading to tiny scratches that trap stains. Instead:
- Use a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner.
- Avoid whitening toothpaste that can more severely damage the denture material.
- Rinse your dentures after meals to prevent food and drink stains from setting in.
2. Soak Your Dentures Overnight
Dentures need moisture to keep their shape and stay durable. Soaking them overnight in a denture solution not only keeps them from drying out but also helps remove stains and bacteria. So:
- Use a dentist-approved denture cleaner or water—not mouthwash. Many contain alcohol that can dry out and damage your appliance.
- If you prefer a natural approach, a mix of warm water and white vinegar can help dissolve buildup. Just make sure to rinse them off thoroughly before putting them in your mouth.
3. Watch Out for Things That Can Stain Your Prosthetics
Just like natural teeth, dentures can absorb pigments from certain foods and drinks. Try to limit:
- Coffee, tea, and red wine, which are the top culprits for staining.
- Tomato-based sauces, berries, and curry, all of which contain rich pigments that discolor dentures.
- Tobacco, smoking, and vaping can cause yellowing and are tough to clean off.
If you must partake, try to moderate your use of any smoking products and rinse your dentures right after meals to reduce the risk of staining.
4. Say “No” to DIY Cleaning Hacks
It might be tempting to use household products or other social media-approved dental “hacks” like bleach or baking soda to whiten your dentures, but these methods can do more harm than good.
Bleach weakens the denture material, making it brittle over time. Baking soda is too abrasive and can leave scratches that attract stains. Hot water can warp dentures, affecting their fit.
So, instead of trusting the masses, stick to cleaning products specifically designed for dentures to avoid damage. If you’re not sure which ones to use, call your dentist for guidance!
5. Schedule Professional Cleanings
Even with good at-home care, dentures can develop stubborn stains with age. Thankfully, your dentist can professionally clean them using specialized tools that remove deep discoloration without harming your prosthetics.
As a bonus, regular checkups also ensure that any remaining teeth and your gums are healthy while evaluating your dentures for fitness and comfort.
A little daily care goes a long way in keeping your dentures white and bright. By brushing gently, soaking overnight, avoiding stain-causing foods, and seeing your dentist for routine care, you can enjoy a fresh, confident smile for many years more.
About the Author
Dr. Steve Cha isn’t just passionate about dentistry, he truly cares about his patients. He earned his dental doctorate from the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, and he’s never stopped learning. To date, he’s completed hundreds of hours of continuing education to provide exceptional dentistry. Call (972) 529-1800 to schedule a denture consultation at Lake Forest Dental of McKinney or visit our website to see a full menu of services.