How to Brush Your Partial Denture to Keep It Clean
Posted on 1/1/2025 by St. Louis Prosthodontics
Taking care of your partial denture is just as important as caring for your natural teeth. It helps to keep your mouth healthy, prevents bad breath, and prolongs the life of your denture. Brushing your partial denture regularly is a key part of this care routine.
Why is it important to brush your partial denture?
Your partial denture is made of acrylic and metal, which can attract plaque and bacteria just like your natural teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that builds up on your teeth and dentures. If it isn't removed, it can harden into calculus (tartar), which is much more difficult to remove. Plaque and calculus can lead to several problems, including:
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Gum disease: This is an infection of the gums that can damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth and dentures.
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Bad breath: Plaque and bacteria can cause bad breath, which can be embarrassing and lead to social anxiety.
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Staining: Plaque and calculus can stain your partial denture, making it look dull and yellowed.
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Damage to your partial denture: Plaque and calculus can damage the acrylic and metal parts of your partial denture, shortening its lifespan.
How to brush your partial denture
Brushing your partial denture is simple and only takes a few minutes each day. Here are the steps to follow:
1~
Gather your supplies: You will need a soft-bristled toothbrush, denture cleaner, and a cup of water.
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Wet your toothbrush: Wet your toothbrush with water and apply a small amount of denture cleaner.
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Brush all surfaces of your partial denture: Gently brush all surfaces of your partial denture, including the teeth, the metal clasps, and the underside of the denture base. Pay special attention to areas where plaque tends to build up, such as the gum line and the spaces between the teeth.
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Rinse your partial denture: Rinse your partial denture thoroughly with water to remove any remaining denture cleaner or debris.
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Brush your natural teeth: If you still have natural teeth, be sure to brush them as well.
Tips for brushing your partial denture
Here are a few additional tips for brushing your partial denture:
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Brush your partial denture over a sink or basin filled with water. This will help to catch the denture if you accidentally drop it.
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Don't use toothpaste to brush your partial denture. Toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch the surface of your denture.
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Soak your partial denture in denture cleaner overnight. This will help to loosen plaque and make it easier to remove.
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See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can check your partial denture for any signs of wear or damage and clean it professionally.
Conclusion
Taking care of your partial denture is important for your oral health and the longevity of your restoration. By brushing your partial denture regularly, you can help to prevent plaque and calculus buildup, gum disease, bad breath, and staining. Follow these tips to keep your partial denture clean and healthy.
About | Dental Implants St. Louis | St. Louis Prosthodontist At St. Louis Prosthodontics, we want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles. Click here to learn about us and how we can help! St Louis Prosthodontics - Joseph Shea DDS, MS, 3701 S Lindbergh Blvd Suite 201, St. Louis, MO 63127 / 314-937-5487 / stlouisprosthodontics.com / 1/29/2025 / Associated Words: Dental Implants St. Louis /
Taking care of your partial denture is just as important as caring for your natural teeth. It helps to keep your mouth healthy, prevents bad breath, and prolongs the life of your denture. Brushing your partial denture regularly is a key part of this care routine.