The Best Way to Clean Your Dentures: Expert Advice from Aged Care Dentistry

The best way to clean your dentures is to use a non-abrasive denture cleaner every day, brush gently with a soft brush, and soak them overnight. This keeps them fresh, comfortable, and hygienic.

At Aged Care Dentistry, we provide gentle, professional care delivered with compassion. We support residents, carers, and aged care facilities across Perth with safe, practical routines for denture care. Our mobile team brings the clinic to you, so you can receive stress-free advice and treatment in the comfort of your home or facility.

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How to Clean and Care for Your Dentures Properly

Use a specialised denture cleaner, not regular toothpaste.
Brush gently each day and soak dentures overnight.
Rinse well before wearing to remove solution residue.
Clean your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth daily.
Avoid hot water, bleach, and abrasive cleaners.
Seek professional cleaning or a reline if comfort or fit changes.

Why Denture Cleaning Is So Important

Protecting oral health

Clean dentures help prevent plaque build-up, staining, and sore spots on the gums. Reducing bacteria lowers the risk of denture stomatitis and keeps your mouth feeling fresh. Good denture hygiene also supports better breath and a healthier mouth overall.

Extending the life of your dentures

Daily care preserves the smooth surface of your dentures and reduces wear. When dentures are kept clean, they are less likely to harbour deposits that irritate the gums. This helps them fit more comfortably for longer and reduces the need for early replacement.

Supporting general wellbeing

Comfortable, clean dentures make eating easier and more enjoyable, which supports good nutrition. They also help with clear speech and confidence in social settings. For many older adults, these small daily wins add up to better quality of life.

If you or a loved one needs help getting started, our friendly clinicians can demonstrate a safe routine and suggest simple tools that make cleaning easier. Dentistry that comes to you.

Choosing the Right Denture Cleaner

Why toothpaste should be avoided

It may seem natural to clean dentures with regular toothpaste, but this is one of the most common mistakes people make. Toothpaste contains abrasive ingredients designed for natural enamel, which can scratch the acrylic surface of dentures. These tiny scratches can trap bacteria and stains, causing unpleasant odours and discolouration over time. Instead, always choose a cleaner specifically made for dentures – one that is gentle but effective.

The different types of denture cleaners

There are several types of denture cleaners available, and the best choice depends on your routine and comfort level:

Effervescent tablets or powders: These dissolve in water to create a cleansing solution. They are convenient for daily use and excellent for removing stains and bacteria.
Liquid solutions: Perfect for quick soaks during the day or before bedtime. They provide a deep clean without the need for vigorous brushing.
Ultrasonic cleaners: These use sound waves to remove debris in hard-to-reach areas. They’re often used in aged care settings or by those who prefer a thorough, hands-free clean.

If you’re unsure which product to choose, our team can recommend trusted brands and show you how to use them safely.

Gentle and natural alternatives

For patients with sensitive mouths or allergies, natural denture cleaners can be a safe alternative. Mild hand soaps, white vinegar, or bicarbonate of soda can sometimes be used under professional advice. However, harsh household products like bleach, ammonia, or strong detergents should never be used, they can damage dentures and irritate oral tissues.

At Aged Care Dentistry, we focus on safe, gentle care. We’ll help you find cleaning methods that protect your dentures and keep your mouth healthy, without unnecessary risk or discomfort.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Dentures at Home

Cleaning your dentures properly only takes a few minutes a day, but it makes a world of difference to your comfort and oral health. Follow this simple routine recommended by our dental team:

Rinse after every meal. Remove your dentures and rinse them under cool running water to wash away food particles.
Brush daily. Use a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner to gently remove debris and plaque. Avoid using regular toothbrushes or toothpaste.
Soak overnight. Place dentures in a cleansing solution before bedtime to keep them fresh and prevent bacterial growth.
Rinse well in the morning. Before putting them back in, rinse thoroughly to remove any cleaning residue.
Clean your mouth too. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and any natural teeth using a soft brush and mild toothpaste.

If you or someone you care for has limited mobility, small adjustments can make cleaning easier. Using a non-slip mat, bowl, or towel under the sink can prevent damage if dentures are dropped. Our mobile dental team can also recommend adaptive cleaning tools for those with arthritis or reduced dexterity.

With a consistent routine, your dentures will stay clean, odour-free, and comfortable – helping you smile and eat with confidence every day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Dentures

Even with the best intentions, some cleaning habits can do more harm than good. Avoiding these simple mistakes will keep your dentures in great condition for longer:

Using hot or boiling water: High temperatures can cause dentures to warp or lose their shape. Always use cool or lukewarm water when rinsing or soaking.
Skipping the nightly soak: Dentures need time out of your mouth to give your gums a rest and to remove bacteria. Always soak them overnight in a recommended cleaning solution.
Using bleach or household cleaners: These can discolour or weaken the denture material and irritate your gums. Stick with safe denture cleaning products only.
Wearing dentures 24/7: Constant wear can cause soreness and reduce gum circulation. Give your mouth time to breathe while your dentures soak overnight.
Brushing too hard: Vigorous scrubbing can cause scratches. A gentle, circular motion is all that’s needed to keep them clean.

Aged Care Dentistry’s advice is simple: treat dentures with care, just as you would your natural teeth. With gentle cleaning and the right products, you can enjoy a clean, comfortable fit every day.

When to Seek Professional Denture Cleaning

Even when you clean your dentures daily, professional care still plays an important role. Over time, plaque, calculus, and stains can build up in areas that are hard to reach at home. Professional cleaning helps maintain hygiene, fit, and appearance.

Our experienced mobile dental team can:

Remove stubborn deposits that regular brushing can’t reach.
Inspect for cracks or wear that may affect comfort and safety.
Check the fit and function to ensure dentures aren’t causing irritation or looseness.

We bring this service directly to you at home or in your aged care facility – using safe, professional-grade cleaning solutions and equipment. This saves you the inconvenience of travel and ensures your dentures are cared for in a clean, familiar setting.

Caring for Dentures in Aged Care Settings

For carers and aged care staff, denture hygiene is an important part of daily support. Clean dentures help prevent infections, improve nutrition, and boost comfort and confidence.

Here are a few practical tips we share with facilities and family carers:

Label dentures clearly to prevent mix-ups between residents.
Clean daily using denture tablets or a mild solution.
Inspect regularly for damage, staining, or poor fit.
Report any pain or changes in oral health to a dental professional promptly.
Store dentures safely in clean containers filled with water or solution when not in use.

Our clinicians work closely with aged care providers to ensure staff feel confident handling and cleaning dentures correctly. We provide hands-on guidance, training, and support so residents always receive gentle, professional care – because everyone deserves to feel comfortable and cared for.

Signs It’s Time to Reline or Replace Your Dentures

Even with the best care, dentures won’t last forever. Over time, your mouth naturally changes shape, and normal wear can affect how your dentures fit and feel. Cleaning helps keep them fresh, but if you notice any of the following signs, it may be time for a professional review:

Your dentures feel loose or slip while talking or eating.
You notice sore spots, rubbing, or irritation on your gums.
There’s a clicking sound when you speak or chew.
Persistent stains or odours remain, even after cleaning.
Your dentures are cracked, chipped, or discoloured.
You find it harder to chew certain foods comfortably.

A poor fit can cause pain, irritation, and difficulty eating. It can also speed up bone loss in the jaw. That’s why our team recommends regular reviews – not just for cleaning, but also to assess comfort and fit.

At Aged Care Dentistry, we can reline or replace dentures as needed, ensuring they continue to look natural and feel secure. Our mobile dental team brings all the care you need directly to your home or facility, saving you the stress of travel while keeping you smiling confidently.

Smile Bright with Simple Denture Care

Keeping your dentures clean doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple daily steps – gentle brushing, soaking, and regular rinsing – are all it takes to keep your dentures looking and feeling their best. With the right cleaner and a bit of care, you can enjoy long-lasting comfort and freshness.

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