Just like with your natural teeth, partial dentures require proper care and maintenance. If not properly cleaned, partial dentures can become a source of bad breath.
The space between your dentures and your gums are prone to bacteria which is why it’s important to develop a regular habit of cleaning your dentures daily. This prevents the buildup of plaque and tartar and protects you from gum disease and any unpleasant odours.
What causes bad breath with dentures?
After meals, particles of food can become lodged beneath your dentures. The plaque caused by this lingering food can form a layer around your full/partial dentures, creating an unpleasant smell.
In addition, failing to clean your dentures every day or wearing them all the time can lead to a buildup of bacteria, causing bad breath.
How Can I Avoid Bad Breath When Wearing Dentures?
1. Clean Your Dentures Regularly
To remove food and plaque from your full/partial dentures you must clean them every day. This can be done using the SOAK, BRUSH, RINSE technique.
- Soak: Use a denture cleaning tablet in warm water and soak the dentures in this solution for the specified amount of time. Soaking your dentures in this solution will ensure that all the debris a brush cannot reach is removed.
- Brush: Using a soft-bristle brush and the cleansing solution (no toothpaste, as this, can scratch your partial denture and cause bacteria to build up), gently brush off any remaining debris.
- Rinse: Once soaked and brushed, rinse your dentures thoroughly under running water.
A Comprehensive Guide To Caring For Your Dentures
2. Use a Denture Adhesive
Denture adhesives keep your full/partial dentures from slipping but can also prevent food from getting trapped beneath them. This can allow you to enjoy your meals as well as reduce the chance of bad breath occurring after eating.
3. Take Your Dentures Out At Night
Not only will removing your dentures at night give your mouth and gums a much-needed rest, but this will prevent any bacteria from forming and spreading overnight.
Keeping your dentures clean can help reduce the likelihood of bad breath. Visit our denture clinic for more advice on your denture cleaning routine.
Importance of Regular Checkups
It is important to schedule regular visits to a denture clinic to ensure that your dentures fit properly, are adjusted and relined regularly and checked by a professional denturist. This will ensure that they are clean and in good condition.
Future Smiles offers house calls and financing options for all our patients to ensure that, no matter your situation, your dentures are kept clean and bacteria free.
Learn more about our great financing options
Want to Learn More?
If you have any questions concerning denture-related bad breath or want to know more about our full/partial denture services, contact our denture clinic today at (403) 475-0016.
