How Hamilton seniors should clean dentures: soft brushing, overnight soaks & regular checkups

Hamilton seniors ask me all the time how to keep their dentures clean and comfortable. From my practice at Excel Dental on East Avenue South I tell them the basics right away: brush your dentures gently each day with a soft denture brush, soak them overnight in a recommended cleaning solution, and come in for regular checkups so we can check the fit and the health of your gums.

Why proper denture care matters
Proper denture care protects more than your smile. Well-cleaned dentures reduce the risk of mouth infections, bad breath, and sore spots on the gums. For Hamilton seniors, who may have dry mouth or take medications that increase oral risk, good denture hygiene is a simple step that makes eating and talking more comfortable.

Keeping dentures in good condition also preserves the underlying bone and soft tissue health. Ill-fitting dentures can cause pressure points, accelerated bone loss, and even ulcers. Regular cleaning and professional checks help catch small fit problems before they become painful.

Soft brushing technique for dentures
Always use a soft denture brush or a soft toothbrush with nonabrasive denture paste or mild dish soap. I caution patients against regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive and wear away denture surfaces. Brush gently to remove food particles and plaque, paying attention to the grooves that touch your gums and, for partial dentures, the clasps that attach to natural teeth.

Brush over a sink lined with a towel or with a bowl of water beneath, so you do not risk breaking the denture if it slips. After brushing, rinse thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water because it can warp acrylic dentures.

Overnight soaking and cleaning solutions
Soaking dentures overnight helps disinfect and lift stains. I recommend an effervescent denture-cleaning tablet or a professional non-bleach soaking solution approved for dentures. Follow manufacturer directions on soak time and always rinse dentures well before putting them back in your mouth.

If you wear implant-retained dentures, ask me or a hygienist which products are safe around implants and attachments. Never soak metal components in chlorine bleach solutions because they can corrode hardware and weaken the fit.

Scheduling regular checkups and assessing fit
I recommend at least annual dental visits for denture wearers and more frequent visits if you notice looseness, sore spots, or changes in how your bite feels. During a checkup we evaluate the fit, check for tissue irritation, and look for signs of oral infection or oral cancer, which is especially important for seniors.

If dentures become loose even with adhesive, bone resorption may be the cause and a reline, rebase or new denture might be necessary. I work with each patient to balance comfort, chewing ability, and budget when recommending adjustments.

Caring for gums and oral tissues
The gums and soft tissues under your dentures need attention too. I advise cleaning your mouth every morning and evening even when your dentures are in place. Use a soft-bristled brush or gauze to clean gums, tongue and roof of the mouth to stimulate circulation and remove plaque.

If you remove dentures overnight, gently massage the gums with a moistened cloth to promote blood flow. Letting tissues rest without dentures for part of the day can reduce pressure and help sore areas heal faster.

Common problems and quick fixes
Soreness and rubbing are often caused by an area of the denture that needs adjustment. Call us rather than trying to trim or modify the denture at home. I can make quick in-office adjustments or fabricate a temporary soft liner to relieve discomfort while we plan a permanent solution.

Persistent bad breath can be a sign of trapped food, fungal infection, or an ill-fitting denture. Thorough daily cleaning, proper overnight soaking, and a professional exam usually identify the cause so we can treat it effectively.

FAQ
How often should I remove my dentures each day? I recommend removing them at night if possible to give your gums a rest, and cleaning your mouth and dentures daily. If you sleep with dentures for personal reasons, at least remove and clean them daily and come in for regular checks.

Can I use regular toothpaste on my dentures? Regular toothpaste is usually too abrasive and can create microscopic scratches where bacteria collect. Use a soft denture brush with denture cleanser, mild dish soap, or a nonabrasive denture paste.

Are soaking tablets safe for all dentures? Most effervescent denture cleaners are safe for acrylic dentures. Check product instructions and avoid bleach-based products on dentures with metal parts. If you have implant attachments, ask me which solution to use.

What should I do if my dentures feel loose suddenly? Do not force them to stay in if they cause pain. Call our office so we can check for changes in fit. Sudden looseness might be due to tissue changes or wear and could require a reline or replacement.

Is denture adhesive okay to use every day? Denture adhesive can help stabilize a well-fitting denture but it is not a substitute for a proper fit. Use adhesives as directed and come in if you rely on large amounts to hold dentures in place.

How can I tell if I have a denture-related infection? Signs include persistent redness, soreness, white patches, burning sensations, or a bad taste. Candidiasis or stomatitis are common with denture wearers and are treatable once diagnosed.

Can I soak my dentures in mouthwash? Some mouthwashes are acceptable for short rinses but are not a substitute for an overnight denture soak. Alcohol-containing mouthwashes can dry tissues and may irritate sore spots.

What about partial dentures and natural teeth care? Keep the natural teeth that remain meticulously clean. Plaque on those teeth can lead to decay and periodontal disease which affects the fit and longevity of a partial. We will review your home-care routine at each visit.

Do implants change how I should clean my dentures? Yes. Implant-retained dentures require special attention around attachments and implants. I will show you the correct cleaning techniques and appropriate instruments during your appointment.

How long do dentures usually last? With good care, dentures can last several years, but changes in bone and wear of the denture base mean most people need replacements or relines over time. Regular checkups help time those adjustments correctly.

More Information
For clear, Canadian-focused guidance I recommend the Ontario Dental Association at https://www.oda.ca and the Canadian Dental Association at https://www.cda-adc.ca. These sites offer patient-friendly resources on denture care, oral health in seniors, and how to find regulated dental professionals in Ontario.

If you have questions or need an adjustment, call Excel Dental at 905-529-2164 and we will arrange a convenient time to see you.