Your denture is made for your mouth and plays a part in eating, speaking and smiling. A consistent care routine helps keep it clean and gives you a chance to notice problems early.
Clean gently every day
Remove the denture and rinse away food debris. Brush all surfaces gently with a soft brush and a suitable non-abrasive cleanser, following your clinician’s instructions. Ordinary toothpaste can scratch dentures.
Rinse thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth. Cleaning tablets do not replace brushing.
Use products suited to your denture
Follow the cleanser manufacturer’s instructions for dilution and soaking time. Use denture-cleaning solutions outside your mouth.
Ask for advice before using a product on a metal framework or soft lining. Chlorine-containing cleaners can corrode metal components. Avoid hot or boiling water and abrasive household powders.
Handle and store them safely
Clean dentures over a bowl of water or a folded towel so they are less likely to break if dropped. Avoid bending clasps while handling them.
Remove dentures before sleep unless your dentist has given different instructions. Store them as advised for their material; many dentures are kept in a container of water when not worn.
Care for your mouth too
Use a soft brush to gently clean your gums, tongue and roof of your mouth. If you have natural teeth, keep brushing them twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and ask how to clean around the denture’s supporting teeth.
Tell the team if handling a brush or removing the denture is difficult. Ask them to demonstrate a routine you can manage.
Know when to arrange a review
Contact a dentist if the denture hurts, slips, clicks, becomes damaged or no longer fits properly. Bring any broken pieces to the appointment.
Your mouth can change over time. Depending on the findings, the denture may need adjustment, relining, repair or replacement. Keep dental reviews even if you no longer have natural teeth.
Frequently asked questions
Everyday questions about cleaning and looking after dentures.
Can I use ordinary toothpaste on dentures?
Avoid it: it can scratch the denture. Use a suitable non-abrasive cleaner recommended for your denture.
Do cleaning tablets replace brushing?
No. Brush gently as part of daily cleaning and use a suitable soaking product as directed.
Can I use the same cleaner on a metal denture?
Check suitability with your clinician. Chlorine-containing products can corrode metal frameworks or clasps.
Should I leave dentures in overnight?
Normally remove them before sleep unless your dentist advises otherwise. Follow the storage instructions for your denture.
What should I do if they break?
Contact the dental team and bring the broken pieces for assessment.
Do I still need dental checks without natural teeth?
Yes. Your dentist can assess the mouth, check the fit and discuss any wear or discomfort.
Further reading: Dentures (NHS), Denture care (Cambridge University Hospitals) and Denture care (Bristol Dental School). Updated from Dentaltech’s original article by Mary Mahon.
Make denture care part of your routine
Contact our team if you need help with cleaning, fit or comfort, or would like to arrange a review.