How to clean dentures properly

Clean removable dentures over a basin of water with a denture brush, rinse them well, and clean your gums and tongue separately.

A denture is an acrylic or acrylic-and-metal appliance that rests on oral tissues or attaches to remaining teeth. Food film and microbial plaque collect on its fitting surface, teeth, clasps, and grooves.

Remove the denture and rinse it after eating, then brush every surface over a partly filled basin so a drop does not crack it. Follow the label for any soaking solution, keep it covered in water when stored if the material instructions call for that, and never use hot water.

Arrange dental care if the denture causes a sore that persists, slips, cracks, smells despite cleaning, or no longer meets comfortably. Seek prompt care for facial swelling, fever, or trouble swallowing.

Ask which brush and soaking product suit the denture base and any metal parts. Ask whether the fit, bite, or oral tissues need examination when cleaning does not resolve soreness.