How to Care for Dentures: A Guide for Seniors & Caregivers

Good denture care keeps dentures lasting longer, keeps gums healthy, and prevents bad breath and infections. Here's what we teach patients and caregivers during in-home visits.

Every Day

• Remove dentures and rinse after meals
• Brush dentures daily with a soft denture brush and denture cleaner — regular toothpaste is too abrasive
• Clean over a folded towel or sink of water, so a dropped denture doesn't break
• Gently brush the gums, tongue and any natural teeth

Every Night

Take dentures out at night to let gums rest. Store them in water or a soaking solution so they don't dry out and warp. Never use hot water.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Bleach or whitening products, which damage the denture
• Home repair kits and super glue
• Wrapping dentures in napkins — the most common way they get thrown away

When to Call the Dentist

Call if dentures are loose, rock or slip, cause sore spots, are cracked or chipped, or if the patient has stopped wearing them. Most dentures need a reline every one to two years. We provide dentures at home throughout New Jersey.