We all worry about bad breath from time to time, whether in the morning when you wake up, or after a delicious meal full of pungent spices. Typically, we combat these effects with gum, mints, or mouthwash. Those with dentures, however, may face additional challenges with fresh breath as dentures can develop a scent of their own.
If you have dentures and have begun to notice a distinct aroma, read on to learn about how you can address it.
Clean Your Dentures Properly
Dentures require additional care above and beyond what you might be accustomed to. To fight odors, be sure you:
- Rinse after eating. After a meal, remove leftover particles by removing your dentures and rinsing them under running water.
- Brush daily. You can remove plaque buildup on your prosthetics by brushing them every day with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner.
- Soak overnight. Dry dentures can lead to cracks where germs gather, so keep them wet when you’re not wearing them. Place them in a glass of water, or a special cleaning solution, while you sleep.
Avoid Dry Mouth
According to the American Dental Association, a lack of saliva encourages the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath. To stay moist, you can:
- Drink more water. Saliva production is dependent on how hydrated you are, and drinking water also helps to naturally flush your system.
- Check medications. Certain prescription drugs are known to cause dry mouth. If you find this is the case, talk with your doctor about other options that might be available.
- Minimize caffeine and alcohol consumption. These beverages work against you by dehydrating your body which can dry up more than just your mouth. Also, when selecting a mouthwash, choose an alcohol-free product.
Practice Healthy Oral Hygiene
Practicing positive oral hygiene habits helps to safeguard against unhealthy bacteria. Be sure to use a soft toothbrush or gauze to gently scrub your gums, cheeks and tongue when you remove your dentures for bed. After all, you don’t want to waste your efforts by putting freshly scrubbed dentures into a germy mouth!
Regular Dental Visits
Staying up to date with check-ins ensures that your dentist can tackle anything that might be contributing to smelly dentures, including:
- Gum disease
- Long-term dental neglect
- Cavities or tooth infection
- Other underlying health issues
Maintaining routine appointments every six months allows your dentist the opportunity to correct any areas of concern before they cause any problems.
Following these tips helps you make the most of your prosthetics while providing proper oral hygiene. You can go about your day confidently knowing you won’t have to worry about bad breath!
About the Author
Drs. Kenneth Endres and Gunveen Chawla at Salmon Brook Dental provide personalized services and high-quality care. Their extended hours of operation offer more flexibility so that you can schedule appointments that work best for you. If you are worried about the state of your dentures, you are welcome to contact the office on the website, or call (860) 653-4551.