Over your lifetime, you likely grew accustomed to brushing your teeth in your mouth regularly in a certain way. Now you have dentures, and it may feel natural to brush them while they are in your mouth the same way you used to brush you teeth. While this healthy habit served you well in the past, is brushing dentures in your mouth really the best approach? Can you brush dentures while they are still in your mouth?
Can Dentures be Brushed in Your Mouth?
The short answer is yes, it is possible. Even if you plan to brush your dentures while they are in your mouth, there are some recommended methods. Please remember to:
- Use a soft bristled brush
- Do not brush with toothpaste which can damage dentures
These tips can help you avoid damage while brushing dentures while they are in your mouth; however, this is not the most effective method to keep your dentures clean because there are parts of your dentures you cannot reach while they are still in your mouth. Feel free to brush your dentures in your mouth if you like, but keep in mind that a thorough cleaning twice a day is critical in the proper care of your dentures.
How Can I Keep My Dentures Clean?
To properly care for your dentures, it is important to fully clean all of the surfaces, and unfortunately cleaning them while they are in your mouth does not allow you access to all sides. That means that while yes, you are technically able to brush your dentures while they are in your mouth, dentists advise that it is better to instead remove them for a thorough cleaning.
For proper denture care, it is recommended that you:
- Remove your dentures so that you can clean all surfaces.
- Brush your dentures with a soft-bristled brush to remove all food debris and plaque from your dentures daily.
- Use a specialized denture cleaning paste to brush your dentures.
- After brushing your dentures, leave them to dry or place them in a cup of cold, fresh water.
- Use regular toothpaste, or the toothpaste recommended by your dentist, to brush your remaining teeth regularly.
If you do decide to brush your dentures while they are in your mouth every now and then, you probably will be fine, but by following these recommended steps to take proper care of your dentures, you can help keep your smile cleaner and healthier for the long haul.
About the Author
Dr. Cher Rich, DDS, fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a dentist in 2002 when she graduated with a doctor in dental surgery from University of Texas at Houston Dental School, and has been serving patients at her current practice since 2007. In our office on Jones Road, you can expect quality dental care from a team that treats you like a friend. If you are interested in dentures, Dr. Rich is happy to consult with you! Reach out through the website or by phone at (281) 469-6281.