Although your dentures can’t get cavities or tooth infections like your real teeth could, you still need to keep them clean and fresh like you would your natural smile. That’s because prosthetic teeth can still become dirty, damaged, and foul smelling if you don’t take proper care of them. If you’ve noticed that yours are starting to smell bad, here’s what could be causing the offensive aroma, and how you can stop it.
Why do my dentures stink?
Unfortunately, there are many things that could cause your dentures to smell bad, including something you ate, your saliva, or even an accumulation of oral bacteria. If you use denture adhesive, this can also contribute to odor, as food and bacteria can become trapped and linger if you don’t clean your prosthetics properly.
Should you notice your dentures have begun to smell bad, first ensure that they’ve had a thorough cleaning. Brush the entire prosthetic with a soft-bristled brush and mile hand soap or cleanser, and floss between each tooth. Then, rinse them well before putting them back in your mouth or into a glass of water to soak overnight. Please be aware that if you haven’t been cleaning them well, however, that this may not be enough to completely remove the odor. In this case, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist for a deep cleaning.
Preventing Denture Odors
Proper cleaning is the first step in preventing denture odor, but to ensure that they remain looking and smelling their best, you should always be sure to soak your dentures in water or denture soak when they’re not in your mouth. This is essential in keeping them hydrated so they don’t dry out and become cracked or warped. This type of damage is typically not fixable, and in addition to harboring odor and bacteria can make your dentures unwearable. If you notice any damage to the denture material, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
The Importance of Dental Exams
Finally, even if you have full dentures and no remaining natural teeth, it is very important to visit your dentist regularly for your biannual exam and cleaning appointments. These are not just an excellent opportunity to ensure your gums and jaw are healthy, but they also are the perfect time for your dentist to deep clean your dentures and ensure they are in good working order. If any damage, buildup, or odor is detected, you can have them repaired or replaced before it gets worse.
Remember, your dentures shouldn’t have a smell or taste. If regular cleaning isn’t doing enough to remove foul odor or buildup, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist to bring back your healthy, fresh smelling smile!
About Our Practice
At Atrium Family Dental of New Lenox, we are proud to help you and your family have a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you have a full mouth of natural teeth, are missing a few, or wear complete dentures, we are happy to offer a variety of oral health solutions that will keep you looking and feeling your best. To make an appointment for dentures, visit our website or call us directly at 815-462-9990.