Your dentures should enable you to smile with confidence. You should love the way they look! Unfortunately, prosthetic teeth can incur stains just like their natural counterparts. Without proper care, they could eventually end up with a yellowish, dull appearance. In some cases, they even turn brown! What are some steps you can take to keep your denture white and bright? Here are some useful tips:
Know What Not to Do
With the goal of preventing or reversing denture stains, some individuals have used inadvisable whitening methods. For example, they might use a whitening toothpaste that is intended for natural teeth, not prosthetic ones. Because such toothpastes tend to be abrasive, they can create tiny scratches in dentures. Over time, those tiny scratches can collect pigments and food particles. Therefore, not only will the teeth not get brighter, but they could actually end up looking worse!
Another method to avoid is the use of household cleaners, such as bleach and similar products. They could harm your denture, or worse, their residue could cause problems for your sensitive oral tissues. You should only use cleaning products that are widely acknowledged as safe for use on dentures.
Pay Attention to Your Diet
A common culprit behind stained dentures is the overindulgence in highly pigmented foods and beverages, including items like coffee, red wine, and berries. Try to keep in mind how such items might affect your smile’s appearance and enjoy them only in moderation. It would also be wise to rinse your denture after you finish consuming anything that has staining potential.
Do Not Use Tobacco Products
Chewing tobacco and cigarettes contain ingredients like nicotine and other components that could stain your prosthetic teeth. People who smoke frequently tend to find that their dentures become yellow or brown quite quickly. It is best to avoid the use of tobacco products altogether if you want a bright white smile.
Keep Your Denture Clean
A thorough oral hygiene routine can do much to keep your denture looking its best. Here are a few things you can do to maintain a fresh and attractive smile:
- Brush your denture every day with a soft brush and mild, clear soap.
- Rinse your denture after every meal.
- Soak your denture overnight in a cleaning solution.
- Make sure to regularly clean your gums, tongue, and the inside of your cheeks.
- Sip on plenty of water throughout the day.
Stay in Touch with Your Dentist
Your dentist’s job is to help you with any concerns that relate to the appearance and health of your smile. They can give you tips on how to care for your denture, and they can professionally clean it to remove minor stains. In some cases, they can make a set of prosthetic teeth look brand-new!
A confident and radiant smile is a precious asset! Use the above-listed tips to keep your denture as bright and white as possible.
Meet the Practice
At Gillis Dental, we provide top-quality general oral health services to our community. If you are thinking about getting dentures, or you would like personalized guidance on how to keep your prosthetic teeth in good shape, we would be happy to consult with you. You can expect us to be courteous and efficient during every stage of your treatment journey. Get in touch with our Needham dental team at 781-202-6357.