Anchorage Denture Care Center – Alaska Dental Associates
Alaska Dental Associates
2702 Denali St #201
Anchorage, AK 99503
(907) 562-2284
Do you have dentures? Has your dentist in Anchorage referred you to a denture care center for a fitting? If so, you probably have many questions.
In this post, Alaska Dental Associates will answer the most common questions like, “How do I keep my dentures clean?”
We will go through the process with you step by step. There is one caveat, though. We encourage you to seek advice from your local denture care center as well because they can recommend the best cleaning products for your specific needs.
Are Your Dentures Removable or Fixed?
Fixed models require that you carry on with a regular care routine. Brush them just as you would with your normal teeth.
Removable models require a bit more care because food particles can lodge between the dentures and your gums.
Denture Care Center Tips for Removable Models
Step 1: Preparation
We advise putting a towel down or half-filling the sink with water. That way, if you drop anything, it’s not going to shatter.
Step 2: Removal
The next step is to remove the plate. Your denture care center will demonstrate this before you leave. You should remove the plate daily.
Step 3: Rinse
Run the teeth under lukewarm water to remove the worst of the debris. Be gentle, so you don’t damage the clasps or plastic.
Step 4: Soak
Place the plate into a cleaning solution designed for this purpose and leave it there overnight. Soaking the dentures is not just to keep them clean; it also helps retain their shape. Some models need to be kept in a moist environment permanently.
Step 5: Clean Your Mouth
Pick a manual toothbrush with soft bristles to clean your mouth, palate, cheeks, and tongue. Clean any teeth that remain as usual. If you use an adhesive to keep your dental plate in place, take a little time to remove any remnants.
Step 6: Brush
Brush the teeth with a soft-bristled brush and a little of the overnight cleaning solution. Remove any food debris and remnants of adhesive, if applicable. You should brush the dentures at least once a day.
Step 7: Rinse Well
If you’ve used a cleaning solution, rinse the plate under lukewarm water to remove any traces of the cleaning agent.
Step 8: Replace
Put your plate back into your mouth.
Step 9: Schedule a Checkup
You should see your dentist at least once every six months. They’ll be able to assist if the plate has started to slip or has become uncomfortable. The checkup is essential for health reasons, as well.
The dentist will check for signs of gingivitis and other potential problem areas, too. If at any other time your plate seems too loose, schedule an appointment for repairs. Loose plates cause discomfort and irritation that can lead to infected mouth sores.
What Not to Do
Correctly caring for your plate will ensure its durability. Never use any of the following methods if you want your teeth to last:
- Abrasive cleaners and brushes: You’ll need to acquire a soft-bristled brush. A stiff brush could scratch the surface. The same applies to harsh cleaners, like toothpaste with micro-particles.
- Whitening products: These products typically contain high levels of peroxide. These products won’t change the color of your teeth, but they can damage the surface.
- Anything with bleach in it: Bleach will discolor the teeth and weaken your plate. It’s also worth noting that any metal sections of the plate will corrode over time if exposed to chlorine.
- Hot water: Use tepid water to clean the plate. Boiling water or very hot water will easily warp the plate. Don’t take that chance.
Final Notes
Cleaning your dental plate is essential for good oral health. The process takes some getting used to, but you’ll master it quickly.
Let Alaska Dental Associates be your denture care center!
Contact us today at (907)562-2284 for an appointment!