Dentures have allowed many people with missing teeth to enjoy beautiful and complete smiles again. While a well-fitting and well-cared-for set of dentures will be incredibly lifelike and so comfortable that you might forget that they’re there, they require daily hygiene measures to stay in great shape. Here’s how dentures can develop an unpleasant odor as well as a few tips for keeping your appliance fresh and functional.
Why Do My Dentures Smell Bad?
If your dentures can give off an unfavorable aroma, it is likely that they are hosting accumulations of bacteria and food debris. This is most likely to happen if they aren’t regularly cleaned, but the problem can become especially bad if you are wearing your dentures continuously. If you are never removing your dentures, you are depriving your mouth of the chance to rest and clean itself naturally, which can allow nasty infections to develop in your soft tissues and bacteria to accumulate in the nooks and crannies of your appliance.
How Can I Get Rid of or Prevent This Gross Smell?
The best way to prevent or eliminate a nasty odor on your dentures is to step up your hygiene routine. A few practices to follow include:
- Remove and thoroughly rinse your dentures after eating to remove loose food particles.
- Clean your mouth when you remove your dentures to flush out harmful bacteria and food residues.
- Brush your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner.
- Soak your dentures overnight in water or an approved denture cleanser so that they don’t dry out while your mouth rests and cleans itself. Just be sure to thoroughly rinse your appliance off before you put it back in in the morning, as denture cleansers can be harmful if ingested.
- Handle your dentures with care. When removing them for cleaning, fill your sink with lukewarm water and cover your countertop with folded towels to create a cushion in case you drop them.
- Never use hot water or harsh or abrasive cleansers when cleaning your dentures. These substances can scratch or warp your appliance, ruining the way it looks or fits.
Dentures should be a long-term investment that looks great without lending an unpleasant odor to your breath. With excellent care, your dentures can last for ten years or more before needing replacement.
About the Author
Dr. Scott Mosby earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas at San Antonio Dental School and furthers his education with coursework through the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. He is also a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. His office in Kingwood, TX offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. To learn more about denture care, contact his office online or dial (281) 359-6672.