Dentures are the tried-and-true solution for tooth loss because they provide so many benefits. These versatile prosthetics can simultaneously restore your smile’s appearance and functionality, regardless of the number of natural teeth you have remaining.
However, you must care for your dentures properly to keep them looking, feeling, and smelling fresh. If your new teeth have developed an unpleasant odor, continue reading to learn why this sometimes occurs and how to prevent it!
Why Do My Dentures Smell Bad?
Many people assume that if they’ve lost most or all of their teeth, they no longer need to worry about their dental health. Unfortunately, nothing could be farther from the truth! Your mouth is full of bacteria that can build plaque on the surface of your dentures and become trapped in the space between your connective tissues and the acrylic base.
If germs flourish, they can form a layer of plaque on your prosthetics that causes bad breath. They can also infect your gum tissue to cause disease that can spread to your jawbone or enter your bloodstream and contribute to more serious health concerns, like diabetes or heart problems. Consistently cleaning your mouth is essential to prevent this from happening.
How Can I Maintain My Dentures?
Regularly removing harmful plaque and bacteria is the most effective way to keep your new teeth in great shape. You can keep them pristine by:
- Maintaining your routine. Even those who have lost all their teeth should clean their mouths twice daily. First, remove your dentures to brush and floss them thoroughly. Be sure to also brush your gums and tongue to clear away remaining germs.
- Choosing the right products. Your prosthetics aren’t as strong as your enamel, so you should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild dish soap to avoid damaging them.
- Rinsing after meals. Take your dentures out and rinse them under gently running tap water after eating to get rid of leftover food and any other unwanted residue. Remember to use cool or lukewarm water because hot temperatures can warp the acrylic base.
- Soaking them at night. Leaving your restoration in a glass of water or special soaking solution while you sleep maintains their shape and kills bacteria that contribute to funky smells.
Finally, it’s a good idea to see your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. This allows them to monitor your oral condition to catch and address any areas of concern, like swollen gums or an ill-fitting restoration, before they worsen.
If you’re still struggling with smelly dentures, having them professionally cleaned can potentially freshen your breath!
About the Practice
Patients at TimberRidge Dental benefit from two dentists with 30+ years of combined experience helping people of all ages build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. Dr. May and Dr. Bowles work together to provide a comprehensive array of services at one location to conveniently meet you and your family’s dental care needs. Then, they combine attention to detail with state-of-the-art technology to deliver safe and accurate results intended to last. If your dentures need to be cleaned, you can request an appointment on the website or call (435) 654-2020.