Denture care

We’ve put together some tips that will help you get the most out of your dentures.

A daily denture care routine will help to minimise odour and stains, keep your dentures looking like new and help them last longer.

Insertion and removal

Your dentist or prosthesist will show you how to put in and take out your denture. Feel free to ask them questions. Make sure you are comfortable with putting them in and taking them out before you leave the clinic.

Never use force to get your dentures in or out.

Function

Your new denture may feel strange, even if you have worn dentures before. This is normal and happens because your mouth takes time to adapt.

When you first eat with your new denture, start with soft foods (e.g. lightly cooked vegetables).

Take small bites and chew slowly. If you have natural teeth, try to bite with them rather than the artificial ones.

If possible, chew on both sides at the same time.

Overnight

Remove your dentures before going to bed each night. This gives your mouth a chance to rest and will help stop you grinding your teeth while you sleep.

Clean dentures well using liquid soap and a soft toothbrush. After cleaning, your dentures can be kept in a clean dry container.

Maintenance

Food debris and plaque need to be cleaned from all denture surfaces daily.

Clean your dentures using a soft toothbrush and mild soap and water or denture paste. Standard toothpaste is not recommended.

Clean your dentures over a hand-basin half filled with water to prevent breakage if dropped.

Brush your gums, tongue and palate (roof of your mouth) morning and night with a soft toothbrush before you insert your dentures. This stimulates circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque.

If you find that your denture has a build up (tartar or calculus), soak it in white vinegar (1 part) and water (4 parts). If you still can’t remove the build up, call your dental clinic and make an appointment to have your denture repolished.

If your denture breaks or is damaged, stop wearing it straight away. Do not try to repair it, bend it or modify it. Call your dental clinic for an appointment to fix it.

Mouth soreness

Your mouth may become a little sore under your new denture. If this happens, contact the clinic to arrange to have your denture adjusted.

If the soreness is severe it may help to remove the denture for at least part of the day. However, please wear the denture for a few hours before your appointment so we can work out where the adjustment is required.

Remember, do not adjust or try to repair your dentures.

Dentures should be well fitted and comfortable when you chew and your breath should be fresh. See your oral health professional if you have any pain or problems with your mouth or dentures or if you need further information on denture cleaning and care.