Mayda Ferguson, DDS
Dentures play an important role in restoring your smile, confidence, and ability to eat and speak comfortably. Just like natural teeth, however, dentures can become stained, dull, or discolored over time. Daily habits, foods, and improper care can all take a toll on their appearance. The good news is that with the right routine, you can keep your dentures looking white and bright for years to come. Here are 4 essential tips to help maintain their shine.
1. Clean Your Dentures Daily (the Right Way)
Daily cleaning is the most important step in preventing stains and buildup on dentures. Remove your dentures after meals and rinse them under lukewarm water to wash away food particles. At least once a day, gently brush them using a soft-bristled denture brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser. Avoid using regular toothpaste, which can be too harsh and cause tiny scratches that make stains stick more easily. Always clean your dentures over a folded towel or bowl of water to prevent damage if they slip from your hands.
2. Soak Dentures Overnight
Soaking your dentures overnight helps remove stubborn stains and keeps the material from drying out. Most dentures need to stay moist to maintain their shape and fit. Use a dentist-recommended denture soaking solution or plain water if advised. Soaking solutions are designed to break down plaque and surface stains without damaging the denture material. Be sure to rinse your dentures thoroughly before placing them back in your mouth, especially if you use a cleansing tablet.
3. Watch Out for Stain-Causing Foods and Drinks
Certain foods and beverages can discolor dentures just like natural teeth. Coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, berries, and tomato-based sauces are common culprits. Smoking and tobacco use can also lead to yellowing and stubborn stains. While you don’t have to avoid these entirely, moderation helps. Rinsing your dentures or mouth with water after consuming stain-causing foods can significantly reduce discoloration over time.
4. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups and Professional Cleanings
Even with excellent at-home care, dentures benefit from professional maintenance. Your dentist can professionally clean your dentures using specialized tools that remove plaque and stains without damaging them. Regular dental visits also allow your dentist to check the fit of your dentures, since poorly fitting dentures can trap bacteria and stain more easily. Never attempt to whiten dentures with over-the-counter whitening products meant for natural teeth, as these can cause damage.
By following these simple tips and staying consistent with your denture care routine, you can keep your dentures looking clean, white, and bright, helping your smile stay confident and healthy every day.
About the Author
Dr. Mayda Ferguson is a graduate of the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry, and followed that with a General Practice Residency at the VA Medical Center in New Orleans the following year. Since then, Dr. Ferguson has been in private practice. She’s continued her learning through continuing education, earning a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry. She also stays current through memberships in the American Dental Association and the Louisiana Dental Association. If you’d like to restore missing teeth with dentures, we can help. Schedule an appointment online or call our Metairie office at (504) 833-2220.