Yes, you should definitely brush fake teeth, also known as dentures. Brushing them regularly is crucial for maintaining oral hygiene and the longevity of your dentures.
Why Brushing Dentures Is Important
Brushing dentures is important for several reasons:
- Removes plaque and food particles: Just like natural teeth, dentures can accumulate plaque and food debris. Brushing helps remove these, preventing bad breath and potential gum irritation.
- Prevents staining: Brushing helps prevent stains from food, drinks (like coffee and tea), and tobacco.
- Maintains denture integrity: Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of hard deposits that can damage the denture material.
- Promotes oral health: Keeping dentures clean contributes to overall oral health by minimizing the risk of infections and irritation in the mouth.
How to Brush Dentures
Here's how to properly brush your dentures:
- Remove Dentures: Always remove your dentures before brushing.
- Rinse Dentures: Rinse dentures with water to remove loose food particles.
- Use a Denture Brush: Use a soft-bristled denture brush (not a regular toothbrush, which can be too abrasive).
- Use Denture Cleaner: Use a non-abrasive denture cleaner or mild soap. Avoid regular toothpaste, as it can scratch the denture surface.
- Brush All Surfaces: Brush all surfaces of the dentures, including the areas that fit against your gums and the biting surfaces.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse dentures thoroughly with water after brushing.
- Soak Overnight: Soak dentures overnight in a denture-cleaning solution or water.
Frequency of Brushing
Dentists recommend brushing your dentures at least once a day, preferably twice a day – once in the morning and once before bed.
Additional Tips
- Handle dentures with care to avoid dropping and breaking them.
- Clean your gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush or cloth after removing dentures.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleaning of your dentures.
