If yellowy stains are holding your dentures hostage, it might not be your fault. Daily oral hygiene and avoiding foods and drinks with strong colors definitely helps prevent staining, but at the end of the day, your dentures are a physical object. Over time, wear and tear can tarnish all kinds of things.
But that doesn’t mean you should throw in the towel! There are a few simple ways you can put the “pearl” back into “pearly white dentures.” Keep reading to learn more.
Solving Denture Stains at Home
Even with daily care, sometimes your dentures just need a little extra attention. Set aside some time to give them a deluxe wash at your very own sink. You’ll need a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tube of non-abrasive toothpaste. Massage the paste over your denture’s stains, and hopefully the residue will fall away after a rinse or two. If they don’t, break out your denture cleaner and let your replacement teeth soak!
Leaving Denture Whitening Up to The Pros
“What do I do if my dentures are still dirty?” There are some pigments that only a professional can remove. Your dentist has special tools and skills for whitening dentures and would be happy to give them a good polishing as part of their preventative care services. Clean dentures promote a healthy mouth, so it’s actually recommended that you visit your dentist for denture whitening at least twice a year.
Dangerous Ways to Clean Your Dentures
Not all cleaning methods are created equal! Just like you shouldn’t use certain cleaners on certain countertops or kitchen appliances, there are some things that can damage your prosthetic. Here are “denture whiteners” that you’re better off avoiding:
- Store-bought teeth whitening products
- Stiff-bristled toothbrushes
- Toothpastes, soaps, or cleaning solutions with abrasive ingredients
- Hot water (which means no boiling your dentures in a pot!)
It can be tricky to find good products and whitening techniques for your dentures, so don’t be afraid to contact your dentist. They can recommend safe, effective solutions for maintaining your smile aesthetics. With honest communication and a little bit of elbow grease, you can restore your denture’s pearly sheen!
About the Dentist
Dr. Craig Harder earned his dental degree from Creighton University and has advanced training in dental cosmetics. He understands the importance of having pearly white dentures and would be happy to help you eliminate pesky stains with his professional skills and expert advice. To contact Dr. Harder’s office and schedule an appointment, call 509-765-4351.