According to a survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, when asked what they’d like to improve about their teeth, most people said they’d like them to be whiter. It’s easy to see why; after all, a great smile makes a powerful first impression. But if you wear dentures, you may feel as if there’s not much you can do about stains on your artificial teeth. Not so! Here are some tips that can help keep your dentures looking bright.
Keep Your Dentures Clean
Much like natural teeth, it’s important to brush your dentures every day with a soft toothbrush. Not only will you remove food particles and plaque, but you’ll also help prevent staining. Your dentist may recommend a brand of denture cleaning solution that can remove stains in addition to killing bacteria.
Remember: always remove your dentures before cleaning them in any way, and be sure to rinse them thoroughly afterwards. Otherwise, they can irritate your gums and tongue. Also, always keep your dentures in water or soaking solution when outside of your mouth so that they don’t dry out.
Cut Down on Staining Foods and Drinks
Highly pigmented foods and drinks such as berries, tea, or coffee are notorious for staining teeth – even artificial teeth. Try to limit your intake of staining foods. If you do indulge, briefly rinsing your dentures afterwards can help.
Avoid Certain Whitening or Cleaning Products
Since your dentures are different from your natural teeth, not all teeth whitening methods will work on them. Avoid whitening toothpastes; not only are they ineffective in removing denture stains, but they’re also highly abrasive and can scratch the surface. Also, do not use products that contain bleach; they weaken the dentures and can actually cause discoloration.
Get a Professional Cleaning
The best way to thoroughly whiten your dentures is a professional cleaning. Your dentist will be able to remove surface stains via a thorough polishing. It’s a quick process, and the result is a greatly improved appearance. In most cases, you’ll only need to bring your dentures in to be cleaned once or twice a year; however, your dentist may recommend some extra visits depending on your personal circumstances.
If you’re thinking of trying a new whitening method, speak with your dentist first. Otherwise, simply being aware of staining materials and good oral hygiene habits can make a big difference in the appearance of your dentures. In a way, they’re a lot like natural teeth; when you take care of them, it’s easier to maintain a brilliant smile!
About the Practice
At Coral Springs Dentistry, Drs. Walter K. Kulick, Shayan Ghodsi, Vibhor Bidkar and Muyeenul Hassan combine their knowledge of cosmetic, general, and restorative dentistry to help patients maintain strong, healthy smiles. They offer same-day repairs and relines for dentures. To make an appointment, visit their website or call (954) 341-0500.