Brush Dentures Research Paper

Dentures are designed to mimic natural teeth to give the wearer a youthful and healthy expression. Like natural teeth, they require daily cleaning, in order to maintain their strength and appearance. There is one hotly debated topic regarding denture cleaning: to brush or not to brush.

Can You Brush Dentures?

Unlike what you may have heard, it is possible to brush dentures. In fact, the American Dental Association recommends brushing dentures. However, you cannot do it the same way you would brush natural teeth.

So how do you clean and brush dentures? Here's how:

• Rinse Dentures after Eating: For optimal mouth health, you should always remove and rinse your dentures after eating. You can use warm or cool water, but never extremely cold or scalding hot.

•

Brush Your Mouth: Even if you have no natural teeth, you should still brush your mouth.

This will help prevent gingivitis and kill any germs that cause bad breath. Instead of using a regular toothbrush, which is quite harsh, use a soft-bristled toothbrush. You can also use gauze, if a soft-bristled toothbrush hurts. Be sure to brush your gums, tongue, and any natural teeth thoroughly with or without toothpaste.

• Brush Dentures Daily: Gently brush your dentures daily with a mild cleaner. Mild hand soap or dishwashing liquid can be used. You can also use cleansers designed specifically for dentures. Again, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the dentures. Do not use toothpaste, as it is very abrasive and can cause damage to the

dentures.
• Soak Dentures Overnight: Each night, remove your dentures and soak them in a denture cleaning solution. You can find several denture cleaning solutions at the supermarket or make your own. If you have a partial, soak it for 30 to 45 minutes at a time, instead of overnight.
• Rinse Before Putting Dentures Back In Your Mouth: Finally, before you put your dentures back in your mouth, give them a good rinse. This will help remove any unwanted taste, smells, or chemicals from the dentures.
Please note: If you use adhesives with your dentures, you may need to follow a different routine. You may also need to use a stronger cleaner to remove the excess residue left behind from the adhesive. If in doubt about your cleaning routine, contact your denturist for more information.
There you have it: the answer to the much-debated topic. Yes, you should brush your dentures. However, you should do so gently and with caution. You should also use the other cleaning methods above to ensure your mouth stays healthy and your dentures stay pearly white.