Dentures are a vital dental aid for individuals who have lost their natural teeth. Whether full or partial, dentures help people chew, speak, and smile with confidence. However, like natural teeth, dentures require proper care and maintenance to ensure they function effectively and remain comfortable.
One common issue denture wearers face is the accumulation of plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on surfaces, including dentures. Over time, if not removed, plaque can harden into tartar, making it much more difficult to clean and potentially leading to gum irritation or infection. This article will guide you through how to remove hardened plaque from dentures effectively, with simple and safe techniques that you can incorporate into your daily dental care routine.
Understanding Plaque and Tartar on Dentures
Plaque is a soft, sticky substance made up of bacteria, saliva, and food particles. It forms on dentures just like it does on natural teeth, particularly around the gum line. If left untreated, plaque can harden and form tartar, also known as calculus.
Tartar is much more difficult to remove because it bonds strongly to the surface of the dentures.
While plaque buildup is natural and a part of daily living, tartar can cause problems such as:
Staining: Plaque and tartar can discolor dentures, making them look unsightly.
Odor: The bacteria in plaque and tartar can create unpleasant odors, affecting the freshness of your breath.
Irritation: Hard plaque can irritate your gums, causing inflammation or sores.
Infections: If plaque is not removed, it can lead to gum disease or other oral infections, even in denture wearers.
It is essential to address plaque and tartar buildup promptly, and luckily, with the right cleaning tools and techniques, you can keep your dentures looking and feeling fresh.
Tools You Need to Remove Hardened Plaque from Dentures
Before we dive into the steps of cleaning, let’s first talk about the tools you will need. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more effective.
Denture Brush: A soft-bristled brush designed specifically for dentures is ideal. It’s gentle on the material but effective at cleaning the surface.
Non-abrasive Denture Cleaner: Use a cleaner formulated for dentures that won’t scratch or damage them. Avoid household cleaners, as these can be too harsh.
Baking Soda: Baking soda is mildly abrasive and can help scrub away tough plaque.
Soaking Solution: Denture soaking solutions are available in the market. These solutions help loosen plaque and tartar, making it easier to clean.
Warm Water: Always use lukewarm or cool water when cleaning your dentures. Hot water can warp the denture material.
Toothpicks or Soft Picks: If necessary, you can use toothpicks or soft picks to dislodge stubborn plaque from between the teeth of your dentures.
Gum Cleanser: If your gums are also affected by plaque, a mild gum cleanser may be helpful.
Now that you have the tools, let’s explore the step-by-step process of removing hardened plaque from your dentures.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Hardened Plaque from Dentures
1. Rinse Your Dentures
Before you begin the cleaning process, rinse your dentures under lukewarm water to remove any loose food particles. If you are cleaning your dentures after a meal, this initial rinse will help you get rid of any debris that might get in the way of effective plaque removal.
2. Soak Your Dentures in a Denture Cleaning Solution
Soaking your dentures in a special denture cleaning solution for a few minutes can help loosen hardened plaque and tartar.
Most denture cleaning solutions contain gentle ingredients that break down plaque without damaging the denture material.
How to Soak: Fill a clean cup with the denture cleaner solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Place your dentures into the solution and allow them to soak for 10-15 minutes. For stubborn plaque, you may want to let them soak longer, but avoid leaving them in for an extended period to prevent damage.
Alternatives: If you don’t have a commercial cleaner, a mixture of warm water and a small amount of baking soda can serve as an effective substitute.
3. Use a Denture Brush to Scrub the Surface
Once your dentures have soaked, use a denture brush to gently scrub the surfaces. Make sure the brush is soft-bristled to avoid scratching the denture. A hard-bristled brush can create microscopic grooves on the surface, making plaque buildup more likely in the future.
Brush the Plaque: Focus on the areas where plaque tends to accumulate, such as around the gum line and between the teeth. Apply gentle pressure as you scrub, being careful not to damage the denture material.
Circular Motion: Use a circular motion to lift the plaque from the surface. This will help to dislodge it without causing unnecessary wear on the material.
4. Target Stubborn Plaque with Baking Soda
If the plaque has hardened into tartar, you may need a slightly more abrasive cleaning method. Baking soda is an effective and safe way to tackle this problem.
How to Use Baking Soda: Wet your dentures with warm water, then apply a small amount of baking soda onto your denture brush. Gently scrub the affected areas with a little more pressure. The baking soda will help to break down and lift stubborn tartar.
Caution: Be cautious when using baking soda. It’s a mild abrasive, but excessive use can wear down the surface of the dentures over time. Limit its use to once a week or when needed for tough tartar.
5. Clean the Crevices with a Toothpick or Soft Pick
Dentures have many nooks and crannies where plaque can build up, especially along the gum line and between teeth. If you notice plaque accumulating in these areas, use a toothpick or soft pick to gently scrape the buildup.
Be Gentle: Do not use excessive force. The goal is to gently remove the plaque without scratching the surface of the denture. A soft pick designed for oral hygiene is the safest choice.
6. Rinse Thoroughly
After scrubbing your dentures, rinse them thoroughly under lukewarm water to remove any loose plaque, baking soda, or cleaning solution.
Make sure all cleaning agents are completely removed to prevent irritation when wearing your dentures.
7. Dry Your Dentures
Once cleaned, gently pat your dentures dry with a soft cloth or towel.
Never rub them too vigorously, as this can cause scratches. Store your dentures in a safe place to avoid dropping or damaging them.
8. Brush Your Gums and Tongue
While cleaning your dentures, it’s also a good idea to take care of your gums and tongue. Use a soft toothbrush to gently brush your gums and tongue, removing any plaque or bacteria that may have accumulated. This will help keep your mouth healthy and fresh.
Preventing Hardened Plaque Buildup on Dentures
While cleaning is essential, prevention is key to avoiding hardened plaque. Here are a few tips to help you prevent plaque from building up on your dentures:
Clean Daily: Clean your dentures thoroughly at least once a day.
Regular cleaning will help prevent plaque from hardening into tartar.
Soak Regularly: Soaking your dentures in a denture cleaning solution overnight can help prevent plaque buildup and keep them fresh.
Avoid Sticky Foods: Foods like caramel, chewy candy, or sticky gum can easily stick to your dentures and promote plaque buildup. Try to avoid these foods, or clean your dentures immediately after eating them.
Rinse After Eating: Rinse your dentures with water after meals to remove any food particles that may contribute to plaque formation.
Conclusion
Removing hardened plaque from dentures requires careful attention to detail, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s entirely manageable. By regularly cleaning your dentures, using appropriate cleaning agents, and taking preventative measures, you can keep your dentures free from plaque buildup, ensuring they remain comfortable and functional for years to come. If you ever encounter persistent plaque or tartar that you can’t remove at home, consider visiting your dentist or denturist for professional cleaning.
