You know that you should clean your dentures before bed. But what happens afterward? Here’s everything you need to know about storing your dentures.

No one has to live with missing teeth, not when there are so many methods to replace lost teeth. Modern procedures effectively restore smiles, and one of the most common methods is getting dentures. Dentures come as either full or partial. Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, consist of removable upper and lower sets to replace missing teeth. A partial denture fills the gap for one or a few missing teeth.

Getting dentures isn’t a long process. In the end, you’ll speak, chew, and smile confidently. The dentures will look and function like your natural teeth. As such, you’ll want to keep them in good condition so they’ll last a long time. The first step starts with knowing how to properly store your dentures every night when you’re not using them. Continue reading to learn pointers on the best way to store your dentures when you’re not wearing them.

Four tips for storing your dentures

Dentures require daily care, just like your healthy teeth. Before bedtime, rinse your dentures to remove trapped food particles. Then brush your dentures with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. 

Since you shouldn’t wear dentures when you sleep, you must properly store them overnight. Your dentist will provide detailed instructions on caring for your dentures, but these four tips will help your dentures look and feel great in the morning:

Soak in water. Water keeps the dentures moisturized so they won’t dry out. Brittle, dried-out dentures can lose their shape and become uncomfortable to wear. Never soak them in hot or boiling water, as the searing temperatures can warp the denture material.

Use a denture cleanser. Water works well, but a denture cleanser provides extra cleansing power to keep your dentures fresh. Dental cleansers are better at eliminating bacteria and fungi that cause unpleasant smells. Follow the product instructions, and always rinse the dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.

Store in a safe place. Dentures can easily break. If they do, you’ll have to get fitted with a new pair, and you don’t want to go through that process again! Store them in a safe container, and place them where they can’t get knocked over accidentally. 

Get a professional cleaning. Are your dentures still discolored or stained even after daily cleansing and soaking? Visit your dentist for a professional cleaning. You may be tempted to try a teeth-whitening product on them, but it’s best to refrain! Such solutions aren’t meant to be used on dentures. In fact, teeth whiteners can damage dentures!

Dentures are made of durable material and can last many, many years when you take good care of them daily. It’s easy once you know how!

Have missing teeth? Visit Espire Dental in La Mesa

Schedule an appointment at Espire’s La Mesa, California, location today! Our highly trained dentists can fit you with a perfect set of dentures so you can have your smile back in no time! Don’t live near our La Mesa, CA office? Find one of our other locations near you.

La Mesa, CA
8555 Fletcher Parkway 
Suite 102 
La Mesa, CA 91942