Cleaning of movable denture is different from that of fixed denture. Therefore, knowledge about denture cleaning should be acquired and applied correctly. Because the way to use dentures for many years in a healthy way is through proper cleaning and maintenance.
What are Prosthetic Teeth Models?
Denture tooth models are as follows:
- Removable Dentures: This is a frequently used denture model today.
- Fixed Dentures: These denture models are similar to crowns and bridges.
- Complete Dentures: If a person has lost all of their teeth, this is a denture model that is often recommended and applied by dentists.
- Sensitive Dentures: This is a denture model preferred by those who attach importance to tooth aesthetics.
- Partial Dentures: This is a denture model used for teeth falling out or breaking in different intervals.
- Implant-supported Dentures: This denture model is divided into two, fixed and movable.
Why is Denture Tooth Cleaning Important?
Dentures are restorations that restore chewing, speaking and aesthetic losses caused by missing teeth. The goal of denture restorations is to use them for at least 5 years. In patients who pay attention to oral and dental care, this period is longer.
For the longevity of the used dentures and not to damage oral health, denture cleaning should be done daily. Dentures that are not cleaned regularly cause bacterial plaque, bad breath and dental diseases. Therefore, denture tooth cleaning is very important.
Is Prosthetic Tooth Cleaning Different from Natural Tooth Cleaning?
Prosthetic teeth are softer in structure than natural teeth. Therefore, they are not as strong against abrasive effects as natural teeth. Abrasives found in toothpastes used for natural teeth can damage the structure of prosthetic teeth. Therefore, toothpastes specifically designed for prosthetic teeth with low abrasive properties should be used. Additionally, the toothbrush chosen should be soft. For hard to reach areas, an interdental brush should be used.
How Should Prosthetic Teeth Cleaning Be Done?
Prosthetic teeth should be cleaned daily. Food particles that enter between the prosthetic teeth during the day should be removed effectively through cleaning. "Prosthesis should be removed from the mouth before sleeping and cleaned.
Prosthetic teeth can be cleaned with a special toothpaste and a soft brush with plenty of water, washed with soap under running water, or left in a cup of water containing special cleaning tablets. Cleaning should be done with lukewarm water, as cleaning with hot or boiling water can damage the structure of prosthetic teeth.
To effectively denture cleaning, you should pay attention to the following steps:
- The Cleaning Area Should be Prepared: First and foremost, keep in mind that prosthetic teeth are not as strong as natural teeth and can easily break if subjected to even a small amount of trauma.
- Prosthesis Should be Removed: To easily remove the prosthetic teeth, the mouth is filled with warm water and the cheeks are inflated to loosen the prosthetic teeth. This procedure should be repeated several times until the teeth are loosened. After the teeth have been removed, all adhesives should also be removed. To remove the adhesive from the mouth, brushing should be done with warm water and toothpaste.
- Residue on Prosthetics Should be Removed: A half vinegar half water solution can be used as a prosthetic cleaner. First, the prosthetic teeth should be placed in the mixture and then thoroughly brushed. This method not only cleans the prosthetic teeth but also helps remove hardened plaque and stains.
- Disinfection Should be Applied: Brushing cleans the prosthetics, but does not disinfect. Disinfection is extremely important for prosthetic teeth. Because acrylic prosthetic teeth are porous and can become a breeding ground for infectious organisms. Leaving the prosthetic teeth overnight on a clean and dry surface can help disinfect them.
- Oral Care is Necessary: Oral care is also extremely important for denture cleaning and maintenance. Because if the gums are not properly cleaned, the lifespan of the prosthetic teeth will decrease. Therefore, the gums should be brushed at least twice a day with the teeth. Rinse prosthetic teeth with warm salty water before wearing and after each meal.
