If you wear removable dentures, taking care of them properly is an important part of protecting your oral health and keeping your dentures comfortable. One common recommendation is to remove dentures at night and soak them in an appropriate denture-cleaning solution. Why is overnight soaking beneficial? Here are 4 good reasons to make it part of your denture-care routine.
1. It Helps Keep Dentures Clean
Dentures can collect food particles, plaque, and other debris throughout the day. Simply rinsing them with water may not remove everything.
Soaking your dentures in a product specifically designed for denture care can help loosen debris and assist with cleaning. You should still brush your dentures as directed by your dentist, because soaking isn’t necessarily a replacement for mechanical cleaning.
A clean denture is also less likely to develop unpleasant buildup and odors.
2. It Can Help Prevent Dentures from Drying Out
Many types of dentures can lose their proper shape or fit if they are allowed to dry out for extended periods. Keeping them moist when they aren’t being worn can help them maintain their shape.
This is one reason overnight storage in an appropriate soaking solution or water may be recommended. However, always follow the care instructions provided by your dentist and the denture manufacturer, since certain denture materials or components may have specific requirements.
3. It Gives Your Gums a Break
Wearing dentures continuously can put ongoing pressure on the tissues supporting them. Removing your dentures at night gives your gums and other oral tissues a chance to rest.
Sleeping without removable dentures may also allow you to clean your mouth and dentures separately. If your dentist has specifically instructed you to wear your dentures overnight for a particular reason, follow their recommendations instead.
If your gums remain sore, irritated, or develop persistent red areas, let your dentist know. Your dentures may need an adjustment.
4. It Can Help Control Odors and Stains
Dentures can develop odors or discoloration when they aren’t cleaned properly. Overnight soaking with an appropriate denture cleanser can help loosen certain types of stains and reduce odor-causing buildup.
It’s important to use a denture-cleaning product according to its instructions. Avoid using household cleaners or abrasive products that could damage the denture surface. Some denture materials can also be damaged by hot water, so use the temperature recommended by your dental professional or the product instructions.
Soaking your dentures overnight can be a simple way to incorporate proper cleaning and storage into your daily routine. However, soaking alone isn’t enough. Remove and clean your dentures regularly, brush your gums, tongue, and palate gently, and continue visiting your dentist for routine examinations.
About the Author
Dr. Sarah Esparza is a 1999 graduate of the University of Maryland Dental School in Baltimore. After gaining numerous years of experience serving as a dentist in the U.S. military, she settled with her husband and son in nearby Norfolk and today is proud to offer comprehensive dental services, including dentures, at Esparza Family Dentistry in Virginia Beach. For more information, visit her website or call (757) 499-4707.