Think you know how to effectively clean your dentures? Think again. Almost 15 per cent of Australians wear one or two removable dentures, but while you might think you’re cleaning your dentures properly, there are a number of common misconceptions surrounding the care and protection of them. We’re going to debunk six of the most common denture cleaning myths.
Myth one: I can clean my dentures with water
Busted: You wouldn’t just rinse your mouth to clean your teeth, would you? While it might appear that rinsing your dentures under running water cleans your dentures, all it does is remove visible foods that build up. What you can’t see is that it’s fuelling the growth of nasty bacteria and plaque. This growth can lead to other oral diseases and health problems. Approximately one in five Australian adults have moderate or severe gum disease, also known as periodontitis. And, preventing bacteria growth on dentures is a sure-fire way to prevent gum disease.
Myth two: I can clean dentures with regular toothpaste
Busted: The majority of denture wearers report using their regular toothbrush and toothpaste to clean their dentures. But dentures are actually a lot softer than teeth – they can be easily scratched by brushing with a regular toothbrush and toothpaste. These scratches, or micro-abrasions, make it easy for food and plaque to get stuck. Plus, these scratches provide a breeding ground for bacteria. You should only rely on products, like Dr Mark’s, which have been made specifically for cleaning dentures.
Myth three: I don’t have to clean my dentures daily
Busted: You brush your teeth twice daily, so why shouldn’t your dentures receive the same treatment? Studies have shown a potential increase in microbial contamination of removable dentures over time, which increases your susceptibility to oral diseases. This contamination can only be prevented with regular cleaning of your dentures. And, as a rule of thumb, our dentures should be cleaned at least once daily to prevent bacteria growth and plaque build-up.
Myth four: I only have to clean my dentures, not my mouth
Busted: Many people forget that oral hygiene is about much more than just teeth (or dentures). Oral hygiene includes keeping your gums and tongue clean. You should always remove your dentures when food gets trapped underneath to prevent them from affecting your gum health. You should also remove your dentures at night. That way you can clean your gums before climbing into bed, giving your mouth a rest. Don’t forget to brush your gums and the roof of your mouth every morning before putting your dentures back in too.
Myth five: I don’t have to visit the dentist after getting dentures
Busted: There’s no better expert on keeping dentures clean than your dentist. For that reason, continuing to go to the dentist is incredibly important. Plus, teeth aren’t the only part of your mouth your dentist is concerned with. Regular trips to the dentist can help prevent other oral issues like gum disease. Regularly checking on your oral health will also help prolong the health of your dentures.
Myth six: Wet storage (soaking) is the best way to store dentures when not in use
Busted: New guidelines published in the December 2019 Australian Therapeutic Guidelines* recommend advising people to ‘store their dentures in a dry environment overnight after cleaning them. Allowing the cleaned denture to dry out at night is more effective for reducing yeast colonisation and plaque accumulation, compared with both denture cleansers and water’.
The solution is Dr Mark’s HyGenie products for dentures
While keeping your dentures clean, safe and dry might seem like a lot more work, it doesn’t have to be. Dr Mark’s HyGenie has created ergonomic devices that provide an easy, quick and effective way to clean and dry store dentures in less than a minute. Shop Dr Mark’s simple solution for clean, fresh and hygienic full and partial dentures today. Use code ‘SHIPFREE’ in the checkout for free shipping for all orders over $40, for a limited time only.
Dr Mark’s Peak Denture Care Bundle
*Therapeutic Guidelines are based on the latest international literature, interpreted by some of Australia’s most eminent and respected experts, with input from an extensive network of general practitioners.
