Everyone wants to show off a bright, white smile – even if you no longer have all of your natural teeth. Even the whitest set of dentures can become discolored over time. The good news is that there are several ways to whiten your prosthetic and avoid future discoloration. Read on to learn more about caring for your dentures and keeping them in tip-top shape!
How to Whiten Your Dentures
There are two main ways to clean and brighten your dentures so that they look brand new. Here are your options.
Professional Denture Cleaning
Ask your dentist about having your dentures professionally cleaned. This way, they can remove surface stains and polish them. This way, your prosthetic will look brand new, and it won’t take very long. Many people who have dentures have this completed about twice a year to keep their dentures fresh.
At-Home Denture Cleaning
If you aren’t quite ready to have your dentures professionally cleaned, you could purchase a non-abrasive denture cleaner. This may be all you need to restore your dentures to their original shade. By leaving them to soak overnight, a denture cleaner helps to loosen and remove both stains and deposit buildup. If you aren’t sure about a particular product or solution, ask your dentist for advice. They will give you proper guidance on the best way to maintain your prosthetic.
Things to Avoid When Cleaning Your Dentures
Here are some methods you should stay away from when you clean your dentures:
- Abrasive Products: If you aren’t using the right products, they can cause damage to your dentures. Make sure to avoid using hard and medium-bristled toothbrushes, harsh toothpaste, and abrasive cleanings meant for whitening. You don’t want to ruin the brightness of your dentures.
- At-Home Teeth Whitening Solutions: These solutions, like whitening toothpaste and bleaching products, are not intended for or safe for dentures.
- Hot Water: When dentures are placed in water that is too hot, they can warp and become permanently damaged.
How to Prevent Your Dentures from Staining
- Rinse and brush your dentures with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive cleaner after meals.
- At night, leave your dentures in a denture soaking solution.
- Cut back on dark-colored foods and beverages, like coffee, red wine, tomato sauce, and dark-colored berries. If you do enjoy one of these items, rinse your dentures immediately afterward.
Over time, dentures become dull and discolored. By using the methods listed above, you can restore some of their brightness and keep them pearly white!
About the Author
Dr. Carole Emanuel is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than 25 years! She earned her dental doctorate from the Indiana University School of Dentistry. Since then, she has completed over 500 hours of continuing education and has become a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and the Academy of General Dentistry. To learn more about dentures or to schedule an appointment at her office in Lakewood, visit her website or call (303) 986-0090.