Getting plaque and other debris off dentures is critical for oral health. When not properly cleaned, dentures can harbor bacteria, cause bad breath, and lead to stains, irritation, and infection in the mouth.
Dentures are removable false teeth made of plastic or acrylic resin. They fit snugly over the gums and may have metal clips to keep them securely in place. Over time, dentures attract plaque–a sticky film containing bacteria, food, and cellular debris. Plaque can harden into tartar, which adheres firmly to the dentures.
Regular denture cleaning is essential. Dentures should be cleaned daily by brushing and soaking to remove food particles and plaque. Proper cleaning helps prevent stains, odors, irritation, and oral infections like stomatitis (denture-related inflammation and soreness). It also keeps dentures fitting comfortably and looking their best.
Clean Plaque Off Dentures
Ensuring optimal oral health involves diligent care in cleaning dentures to remove plaque and prevent various issues. Clean plaque off partial dentures to mitigate problems such as bad breath, stains, irritation, and infections.
Why Cleaning Dentures Matters
Cleaning dentures thoroughly on a daily basis removes:
- Food particles
- Bacteria
- Plaque deposits
- Tartar buildup
This prevents:
- Stains and discoloration
- Odors
- Irritation and inflammation
- Infections like stomatitis
Proper cleaning also:
- Keeps dentures fitting comfortably
- Helps dentures last longer
- Makes dentures look their best
How To Remove Calcium Buildup On Dentures
Calcium deposits often form on dentures. These white or yellowish buildups need removing. Use a denture-soaking solution that contains citric acid. This dissolves calcium. Also place dentures in an ultrasonic cleaner. The sound waves break down deposits. Be gentle when you scrub plaques manually. Avoid damaging the denture surface.
To prevent future buildup, take good care of dentures daily. Brush and soak them after meals. Use non-abrasive toothpaste only. Check for plaque frequently. Remove dentures overnight and rinse well before wearing again. See your dentist regularly too. They can remove stubborn tartar during cleanings. Staying on top of calcium is key for healthy gums.
What is a Denture Plaque?
Plaque is a sticky, colorless film containing:
- Bacteria
- Food debris
- Saliva
- Cellular waste
It adheres to all surfaces in the mouth, including dentures. Over time, plaque accumulates and hardens into tartar.
Plaque and tartar provide ideal environments for bacterial growth. They:
- Attract more bacteria
- Can damage remaining natural teeth
- Contribute to gum inflammation and infection
Thorough daily cleaning is essential to disrupt this process.
Cleaning Steps
Follow these steps to remove plaque and keep dentures fresh:
Daily Cleaning
- Brush: Use a soft or medium bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Brush all denture surfaces gently to avoid scratching. Pay extra attention to crevices and metal clasps.
- Soak: Soak dentures for 20-30 minutes in an ADA-approved commercial cleanser or a solution of:1 teaspoon bleach
This helps loosen food particles and plaque.
Weekly Cleaning
- Soak in vinegar: Place dentures in a bowl. Cover with white vinegar for 30 minutes to dissolve tartar. Rinse thoroughly. Avoid with metal components.
- Soak in baking soda: Mix 1 teaspoon baking soda with 1 cup warm water until dissolved. Soak dentures overnight. Rinse well next morning – plaque should brush off easily.
As-Needed Cleaning
- Disinfect: Soak periodically in an antimicrobial denture cleaner to kill bacteria.
- Remove stains: Use cleansers containing sodium perborate to brighten.
- Scrub tartar: Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive paste containing pyrophosphates.
Supplies
Stock these denture cleaning supplies:
| Item | Purpose |
| Soft-bristle toothbrush | Gently remove plaque and debris |
| Toothpaste | Non-abrasive for daily brushing |
| Denture brush | Reach crevices to scrub tartar |
| Denture cleanser | Soak to loosen and remove deposits |
| White vinegar | Dissolve tartar |
| Baking soda | Loosen plaque overnight |
| Bleach | Disinfect and deodorize |
| Antimicrobial solution | Kill bacteria; prevent infection |
| Tartar control paste | Contains pyrophosphates to reduce tartar |
| Whitening cleanser | Remove stains |
Best Plaque Remover For Dentures
Vinegar dissolves plaque well. White vinegar works best. Soak dentures overnight in a vinegar bath. Scrub with a toothbrush in the morning. Baking soda also breaks down plaque effectively. Mix with warm water to form a paste.
Apply paste to dentures. Let sit briefly before brushing. Ultrasonic cleaners use sound waves. The waves remove hardened plaque and stains. Soaking tablets dissolve debris too. Look for tablets with effervescence.
Here’s a comparison of top plaque removing solutions:
| Product | How It Works | Time to Soak |
| White Vinegar | Acid dissolves plaque | Overnight |
| Baking Soda | Abrasive loosens plaque | 5-10 minutes |
| Soaking Tablets | Fizzing action lifts plaque | Per package instructions, usually a few minutes |
| Ultrasonic Cleaner | Sound waves dislodge plaque | 5-10 minutes |
Denture Care Tips
Follow these tips for keeping dentures plaque-free:
- Inspect regularly for plaque and tartar buildup
- Remove and brush dentures at least twice daily
- Clean dentures over a sink filled with water to prevent breakage
- Allow dentures to air dry completely before wearing
- Store overnight in cool water or a denture cleanser
- See your dentist regularly for deep cleanings and assessments
Thorough, gentle cleaning is key for denture health and hygiene. With the proper supplies and techniques, you can keep your dentures looking great and plaque-free.
How To Remove Plaque And Tartar From Dentures
Plaque and tartar accumulate on dentures daily. Brush all denture surfaces gently every day. Use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Soak dentures overnight in an ADA-approved cleanser too.
This loosens debris and dissolves deposits. Once a week, tackle tartar buildup. Soak dentures in white vinegar or baking soda solution. These break down stubborn tartar effectively. Prevent future plaque and tartar with diligent care. Clean dentures thoroughly after every meal.
Check them routinely for any sticky film forming. Remove and rinse dentures nightly before bed. See your dentist regularly as well. They can use tools to remove tartar and plaque you cannot reach. Staying on top of denture hygiene prevents major buildup. Keeping dentures plaque-free takes some work but pays off.
Frequently Asked Question
What is the best way to clean plaque off dentures daily?
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently brush all denture surfaces, then soak in an ADA-approved cleanser to loosen debris.
How can I remove tartar buildup from my dentures?
Soak dentures weekly in white vinegar or a baking soda solution overnight to dissolve tartar, then brush it away the next morning.
What denture cleaning supplies should I have on hand?
Stock items like a soft denture brush, non-abrasive paste, soaking solution, tartar control paste, baking soda and white vinegar to thoroughly clean dentures.
How often should I take out and clean my dentures?
Dentures should be brushed after every meal, soaked overnight, and removed for thorough cleaning at least twice daily to prevent plaque buildup.
Will my dentist clean my dentures professionally?
Yes, see your dentist regularly for deep cleanings to remove plaque and tartar from dentures that daily cleaning may miss.
Conclusion
Keeping dentures plaque-free is crucial for oral health. Be sure to brush and soak them thoroughly daily. Use non-abrasive toothpaste and an ADA-approved solution. Check routinely for plaque buildup. Remove dentures nightly and rinse before wearing again. See your dentist regularly for deep cleanings too. With diligent care, you can disrupt plaque and prevent issues like stains, odors and infections.
Getting in a daily habit of cleaning dentures prevents major problems. Don’t let plaque sit for over 24 hours, as it hardens into stubborn tartar. Remove and scrub dentures after each meal if possible. Soak them in baking soda or vinegar weekly as well to tackle tartar deposits. Staying on top of denture care keeps your smile healthy and bright.