Tips for Proper Denture Storage

Dentures are made to fit comfortably in your mouth, and they should last for many years provided that they're treated with care. These dental devices include full dentures, which replace entire rows of teeth, and partial dentures, which replace several teeth. When you receive your dentures from your dentist, you should also receive detailed instructions on how to wear them, clean them and store them overnight. According to the American Dental Association (ADA) in the United States, effective denture storage prevents your dentures from drying out, losing their shape and becoming stiff and uncomfortable to wear. What's more, dentures must be cleaned and stored hygienically, or they can become a breeding ground for mouth bacteria and develop plaque and tartar in the same way as natural teeth.

Unless your dentist or prosthodontist provides alternative instructions, the best method for denture storage is to place your dentures in clean water or a denture cleaning solution. Denture solutions may offer the advantages of reducing the amount of bacteria and fungi that live on the dentures and preventing unpleasant odours. However, you should always follow the instructions on the label when using denture cleanser solutions, and if the solution is created by dissolving tablets in warm water, make sure the water isn't too hot — which may cause your dentures to warp.

Before putting your dentures back in your mouth, make sure to rinse them well, as the Mayo Clinic in the United States advises. This step is especially important if the dentures have been soaking in denture cleaning solution. The chemicals in this type of solution can cause burns, pain and vomiting if swallowed.

Storing your dentures correctly prolongs their life and helps to keep them clean, pliable and comfortable to wear. Remember these tips from Tan Tock Seng Hospital for properly caring for and storing your dentures:

• Remove your denture at night before you sleep and soak it in a glass of water.
• Remove and rinse your denture after every meal to remove food debris and other loose particles.
• Brush and clean your denture daily to remove any food deposits and plaque. Use a soft-bristled brush or a specially-designed brush and cleanser for denture.
• Clean your mouth before inserting your denture. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth, gums, tongue and palate. Visit your dentist if your dentures break, chip, crack or become loose.

• Put the dentures in hot or boiling water as it may warp. Use strong cleansers or harsh toothpastes, as these are too abrasive and can damage your dentures.
• Adjust the dentures on your own as it may distort the structure and make the dentures unsuitable for further use.

It only takes a few minutes to clean and store your dentures every night to make sure you'll have clean, fresh, comfortable dentures to wear the next day. Additionally, storing your dentures correctly means that you're prolonging their life. Follow your dentist's instructions on denture storage, and if you're unsure about anything, ask for advice.