Just like natural teeth, dentures of all kinds accumulate plaque in hard-to-reach nooks and crannies. In this article we discuss the nature of plaque, how to remove it safely, and the consequences of failing to remove it from your dentures and any surrounding natural teeth. We emphasise the importance of good hygiene for your oral and general wellbeing, and for the longevity of the investment you have made in your denture, your health, and your appearance.
What is dental plaque?
Plaque is an unsightly biofilm that forms on the surface of natural teeth and dental appliances. The biofilm is a complex accumulation of micro-organisms and their byproducts which flourish in the oral environment, interacting with the foods and drinks you consume. Who would have thought that something composed largely of water (80%) could be such a nuisance to denture wearers and those with natural teeth alike?
Why does removing dental plaque matter?
While difficult to eliminate completely, dental plaque has adverse consequences if it's not regularly removed.
- Your appearance and comfort - A build-up of plaque causes an ugly discolouring of your denture, trapping food particles which can cause bad breath and gum irritation, and eventually even disease if not addressed.
- Gum and mouth infection - Trapped food particles can cause gum inflammation and irritation leading to infections like stomatitis and fungal colonisations like candida albicans or thrush.i
- Denture damage - A build-up of plaque can cause your denture to warp, become brittle or damage the denture's delicate surface.
- Partial dentures - Allowing plaque to accumulate can promote dental decay, threatening the integrity of remaining natural teeth on which the stability of your partial denture relies.
- Protecting general health in vulnerable individuals - Managing plaque build-up on dentures is crucial for those with lowered immune systems, especially the elderly. Plaque build-up and associated bacterial overgrowth, correlates with systemic
complications like aspiration pneumonia in hospitalised individuals which can be fatal.ii
How can I avoid dental plaque?
Dental plaque cannot be avoided entirely since it forms as a natural consequence of the food and drink you consume daily together with the natural bacteria that make up your oral microbiome. However, a thorough dental hygiene regime and regular, correctly executed maintenance can help you avoid risking your health and damage to your denture and remaining teeth, as well as preserving a pleasing appearance. Regular brushing, at least twice a day, should include not just your denture, but any remaining natural teeth, your tongue, roof of the mouth, and gums followed by thorough rinsing. Avoid harsh abrasive cleaners which can damage the surface of your dentures creating increased porosity which harbours bacteria.iii Because this also applies to ageing dentures whose surface is no longer smooth and impervious,iv it's important to replace worn dentures. Leaving dentures out overnight allows your oral mucosa some respite and discourages bacterial growth on your denture. If dental plaque is not addressed, it eventually forms a hard yellowish white coating on your denture called tartar or dental calculus, which can only be removed by your oral health provider.
Dealing with dental plaque safely
While dental plaque can be managed with good oral hygiene, and regular maintenance by your oral health provider, it is important to consult with your prosthetist before trying additional home remedies. Given the different materials used in the manufacture of dentures, damage can be done if the wrong chemicals or cleaners are used. Bleach-based cleaners for example, have effective anti-microbial qualities but are corrosive to metal-based dentures. While effervescent-based cleaners can be used safely on metal dentures, they can be damaging if you've had your denture relined.v Therefore, having some basic knowledge of what your denture is made of and how to maintain it will pay dividends in the long run. If in doubt, ask your prosthetist which cleaner is best for you.
How to remove dental plaque at home
One efficient home solution to denture cleaning is the ultrasonic cleaner, which is a less powerful version of what your dental laboratory uses to restore your dentures to their former white bright condition. A home ultrasonic cleaner can be purchased online or at some specialty stores for around $100-$150. When you immerse your denture in the ultrasonic cleaner's solution, high frequency sound waves vibrate the water. The tiny bubbles that form with the vibration, lift stains and debris from hard-to-reach places. The bubbling action also removes biofilm from the surface of your denture before it becomes plaque. Some dentists and prosthetists prefer this method to conventional toothbrushes and denture cleaners as it avoids the possibility of scratching or damaging the delicate denture surface.vi
Why knowing about dental hygiene and the prevention of plaque matters
Researchers have argued for improved education for denture wearers, reasoning that having a better knowledge of what their dentures are made of and how to maintain them, will lead to more positive health outcomes, more comfort, and greater denture longevity which ultimately benefits you, the denture patient.vii They cite learning to brush correctly as an example. Using harsh brushing techniques and abrasive cleaners can cause microscopic scratches in the denture base allowing for microbial colonisation which can lead to disease. Armed with the latest knowledge and expertise, your friendly denture clinic team is best placed to help advise on how to keep your denture and your oral health at an optimal level.viii Educated patients enjoy a better denture experience overall, having greater comfort, fit and wellbeing because of properly maintained dentures.ix And most important, being informed means you can present your best version of you when you smile.
A final word on how to remove plaque from dentures
While dental plaque is a common problem for denture wearers and those with natural teeth alike, there are ways to manage and remove the build-up. We have discussed why removing plaque matters, the damage it can cause to your denture and its longevity, but also to your health, appearance, and wellbeing. Educating denture wearers about their
dentures and how to maintain them correctly is crucial to having a healthy and comfortable denture wearing experience. As a denture wearer, informing yourself by seeking out and following the advice of your denture clinic team is essential to this outcome.
References
i Khaing Myat Thu, Andy Wai Kan Yeung, Lakshman Samaranayake, Walter Yu Hang Lam Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People's Republic of China
ii Khaing Myat Thu, Andy Wai Kan Yeung, Lakshman Samaranayake, Walter Yu Hang Lam Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People's Republic of China
iii Khaing Myat Thu, Andy Wai Kan Yeung, Lakshman Samaranayake, Walter Yu Hang Lam Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People's Republic of China
iv Matsumura, K., Sato, Y., Kitagawa, N. et al. Influence of denture surface roughness and host factors on dental calculi formation on dentures: a cross-sectional study. BMC Oral Health 18, 78 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-018-0543-1 v Mylonas, P., Milward, P. & McAndrew, R. Denture cleanliness and hygiene: an overview. Br Dent J 233, 20–26 (2022).
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-022-4397-1
vi Chan R, Zhang J, McGrath C, Tsang P, Lam O. A randomized trial of the effectiveness of an ultrasonic denture hygiene intervention program among community dwelling elders. Eur Oral Res. 2023 May 4;57(2):83-89. doi: 10.26650/eor.20231025114. PMID: 37525857; PMCID: PMC10387143. Chan R, Zhang J, McGrath C, Tsang P, Lam O. A randomized trial of the effectiveness of an ultrasonic denture hygiene intervention program among community dwelling elders. Eur Oral Res. 2023 May 4;57(2):83-89. doi: 10.26650/eor.20231025114. PMID: 37525857; PMCID: PMC10387143.
vii Mylonas, P., Milward, P. & McAndrew, R. Denture cleanliness and hygiene: an overview. Br Dent J 233, 20–26 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-022-4397-1
viii Mylonas, P., Milward, P. & McAndrew, R. Denture cleanliness and hygiene: an overview. Br Dent J 233, 20–26 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-022-4397-1
ix Algabri R, Alqutaibi AY, Altayyar S, Mohammed A, Khoshafa G, Alryashi E, Al-Shaher S, Hassan B, Hassan G, Dammag M, Al-Aqab S, Al-Shami S, Al-Barakani A. Behaviors, hygiene habits, and sources of care among removable complete and partial dentures wearers: A multicenter cross-sectional study. Clin Exp Dent Res. 2024 Apr;10(2):e867. doi: 10.1002/cre2.867. PMID: 38433293; PMCID: PMC10909811.
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