Wearing dentures can restore confidence in your smile and make everyday activities like speaking and eating easier. But if you’ve noticed that your dentures smell bad, you’re not alone. Just like natural teeth, dentures need daily care to stay fresh and clean. Without proper hygiene, odors can develop, leading to bad breath and discomfort.
The good news is that with consistent care, you can keep your dentures odor-free and your smile feeling fresh.
Why Dentures Develop Odors
Dentures, much like natural teeth, are exposed to bacteria, food particles, and plaque throughout the day. When dentures are not cleaned properly, bacteria can multiply, causing unpleasant smells. Additionally, dentures are made of materials with tiny pores that can trap debris, which means odors can build up faster than you might expect. Dry mouth, smoking, and eating strongly flavored foods can also contribute to lingering smells.
Daily Cleaning Is Essential
A quick rinse isn’t enough to keep dentures fresh. They need to be cleaned thoroughly every day to remove bacteria and food particles. Brushing dentures with a soft-bristled brush designed for dentures is a great first step. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and damage the surface of your dentures. Instead, use a non-abrasive denture cleaner or mild dish soap. Be sure to brush all surfaces, including the areas that rest against your gums.
Don’t Forget to Soak
Soaking dentures overnight is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent odors. Most dentures should be kept moist to maintain their shape and function, so placing them in a denture cleaning solution or plain water before bed can help. Denture soaking tablets can also remove bacteria and reduce staining, leaving them fresher in the morning.
Pay Attention to Your Mouth Too
Even though dentures replace missing teeth, your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth still need care. Bacteria can build up in your mouth and transfer to your dentures, contributing to bad smells. Brushing your gums and rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash before putting in dentures each morning helps maintain overall freshness.
Lifestyle and Maintenance Tips
Certain habits can make denture odors worse. Smoking, drinking coffee, or eating foods with strong odors like onions and garlic can leave lingering smells. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help rinse away bacteria and food particles. It’s also important to schedule regular dental checkups. A dentist can professionally clean your dentures, ensure they fit properly, and catch any issues that may contribute to odor, such as oral infections or worn-down materials.
Keeping your dentures clean and fresh doesn’t have to be difficult—it just requires a little daily care and attention.
About the Practice
At Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry of the Keys, our team provides personalized dental care to help every patient achieve a healthy, confident smile. We offer comprehensive denture services, from fittings to adjustments, as well as guidance on maintaining oral hygiene at home. With years of experience and a commitment to patient comfort, our doctors are here to ensure your dentures not only fit well but also stay clean and odor-free.
Call us at (305) 680-1553 or request an appointment online.