“Dentures can last 5 to 10 years—but only if you take care of them.”
That’s not just a talking point—it’s the truth. At My Brand New Smile, we’ve seen brand-new dentures stay beautiful for years, and we’ve also seen perfectly made dentures decline quickly from neglect. The difference almost always comes down to maintenance. Luckily, denture care doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
With a few simple habits, you can keep your smile looking fresh, protect your oral health, and avoid costly repairs or replacements. Let’s go over the essentials of cleaning, storing, and caring for your dentures.
Daily Cleaning: Keep It Consistent
Your dentures might not be natural teeth, but they still need to be cleaned every single day. Otherwise, you risk developing stains, unpleasant odors, and harmful bacteria. These issues can also lead to irritation or infection in your mouth.
After eating, rinse your dentures under running water to wash away food particles. At least once a day, use a soft-bristled denture brush and a denture-safe cleanser to gently clean all surfaces. Don’t use regular toothpaste—it’s too abrasive and can damage the material.
And don’t forget your mouth. Brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth daily. This helps prevent buildup, promotes circulation, and keeps your soft tissues healthy. Clean dentures in a clean mouth—always.
Overnight Soaking: Let Them Rest While You Do
Dentures need moisture to maintain their shape and fit. Leaving them out overnight without soaking can cause them to dry out, warp, or become uncomfortable to wear. That’s why we always recommend soaking your dentures while you sleep.
Use cool water or a denture-cleaning solution in a clean cup or soaking container. In the morning, rinse your dentures thoroughly before putting them back in—especially if you’ve used a cleanser. Some solutions are not meant to come into contact with your mouth directly.
This simple overnight step helps your dentures stay fresh, clean, and properly shaped while giving your gums a chance to rest.
Handle With Care: Dentures Can Break
Although they’re designed to withstand daily use, dentures are more fragile than they look. Dropping them in the sink or on a hard counter can lead to chips, cracks, or breaks.
When removing or cleaning your dentures, do so over a folded towel or basin of water. Hold them firmly but gently, and never try to bend or reshape them on your own. If something feels off, bring them to us.
Even a small crack or uneven fit can lead to irritation or long-term damage—so don’t try to DIY repairs.
Stay Away From Harsh Products
It’s important to use products specifically designed for dentures. Regular toothpaste, household cleaners, bleach, and hot water can cause serious damage. These products can scratch, discolor, or warp your dentures over time.
Stick with denture-specific brushes and cleansers. If you’re unsure which ones to use, just ask us. We’ll help you put together a care kit that’s effective, affordable, and easy to use.
Don’t Forget About Your Mouth
Even if you wear full dentures, oral hygiene still matters. Your gums, tongue, and palate are all part of your smile’s support system—and they need care, too.
Brush and rinse your mouth daily, even without natural teeth. You can use a soft toothbrush or moistened gauze to gently clean your gums and inner cheeks. Some patients benefit from alcohol-free mouthwash to keep everything feeling fresh.
Healthy gums help your dentures fit better and feel more comfortable. Don’t skip this important step.
Pay Attention to Warning Signs
Dentures should never hurt. If you feel soreness, pressure points, or any kind of discomfort, your dentures may need an adjustment. It’s common for fit to change slightly over time as your jawbone and gums shift.
Other signs that something’s off include clicking, slipping, changes in how you bite, persistent bad breath, or visible cracks or wear.
Don’t try to adjust your dentures yourself. Call our office—we can often fix the issue quickly and easily.
Don’t Skip Your Checkups
Even if everything feels fine, it’s still important to come in for regular denture checkups. Just like a car needs an oil change, your dentures need professional care to stay in good shape.
During your visit, we’ll check the fit, inspect for wear, clean and polish your dentures, and examine your gums and oral tissues. We’ll also look for early signs of bone loss or changes in your jaw alignment.
Staying proactive helps prevent bigger problems and ensures your dentures keep working as they should.
When to Reline or Replace
Dentures don’t last forever, and even the best-made ones need maintenance. Most dentures need a reline—where we adjust the base to fit your gums better—every 1 to 3 years. Full replacements are typically needed every 5 to 7 years.
If your dentures feel loose, rub your gums, or look worn down, it might be time for a reline or replacement. We’ll assess their condition and help you decide the best path forward.
Relining can often be done quickly and affordably—and it can make your dentures feel like new again.
Proper Storage Is Key
When you’re not wearing your dentures, store them in a clean, covered container filled with water or denture solution. Never leave them out on a napkin or paper towel. We’ve seen too many cases where someone accidentally threw their dentures in the trash!
Dry dentures can warp, making them uncomfortable or impossible to wear. Keeping them moist maintains their shape and extends their life.
Make storing your dentures part of your daily routine, just like brushing or flossing.
Travel Tips for Denture Wearers
If you’re heading out of town, bring along a small denture care kit. Include a soft brush, cleanser, a travel soaking cup, and an extra storage case. It’s also smart to keep a copy of your denture prescription or digital file, just in case you need help while away.
Always pack your kit in your carry-on if you’re flying. That way, you’ll have what you need no matter what your luggage does.
Being prepared on the go helps you avoid surprises—and lets you focus on enjoying your trip.
We’re Here to Help You Keep Smiling
Dentures are more than just a replacement for missing teeth. They’re an important part of your comfort, your confidence, and your daily life. And like anything valuable, they deserve proper care.
At My Brand New Smile, we’ll guide you through every step of denture care. From your first fitting to your fifth-year reline, we’re here to help your dentures look great, feel good, and function exactly how they should.
If it’s time for a checkup, an adjustment, or just some questions, we’re only a call away. Let’s keep your smile strong, stable, and fresh for years to come.