When you first got dentures, you might’ve enjoyed having a full smile once again. You were able to show off your grin more confidently while also being able to bite into your favorite foods a bit easier. However, as you used them, have you noticed your prosthetic developing a bad smell? Here’s why this happens and what you can do to get rid of this unpleasant odor.
What’s Making My Dentures Smell Bad?
If you feel your dentures with your tongue or fingers, you may imagine they are a completely solid piece. However, they have tiny pores in them! These areas can harbor bacteria and lead to buildup. When this happens, the familiar bad smell often follows.
While you may imagine that brushing can clean out these small spaces, the bristles can’t effectively get into them. The good news is that soaking your prosthetic can clear these areas! They will be flushed out, so be sure you do this habit every night.
How Can I Keep My Dentures Fresh?
The good news is that there are ways you can freshen up your dentures if they smell bad. One of the first things you can do is to properly take care of them. Be sure to brush them twice every day to remove plaque. Do so with a soft-bristle toothbrush and clear, gentle soap, and you can make sure they stay in great shape.
During the night, take out your restoration and place them in a glass of water or prosthetic-specific solution. This will allow the liquid to seep into it and clean out bacteria that are lingering. Not only that, but this helps keep it flexible and avoid cracks.
Don’t forget to also wipe down your mouth. Doing this will help remove bacteria on your tongue, gums, and inner cheeks; that way, they don’t transfer to your dentures. Drinking plenty of water can also be helpful as it washes away debris and particles.
Last but not least, visit your dentist twice a year for a checkup. These visits will allow your provider to give your prosthetic the deep cleaning it deserves. Using special tools, they will be able to remove tartar and keep them fitting comfortably and pristine. So that you can show off a confident smile for longer.
About the Author
Dr. Mike Rolfes is a proud dentist, happy to help the Port Orange community rebuild their grins after tooth loss. By offering custom restorations like dentures, you can get the reliable solution you need that helps you feel your best. Better yet, with high-quality materials, you can trust that they look completely natural and last for years to come. If your prosthetic is starting to develop a bad smell, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Rolfes’ office at (386) 761-5883.