If you have dentures, then you might enjoy the results they’ve given you. You get to show off a full smile again while having an easier time biting into your favorite foods than before. However, if your pair is a bit older, are you noticing they aren’t smelling the best anymore? This can happen for a couple of different reasons; here are common culprits for this unpleasant odor and how to prevent it.
Why Do My Dentures Have a Bad Smell?
Although your dentures might feel like a completely solid piece, they have tiny pores. Bacteria, plaque, and food particles can find their way into these small areas and build up over time. When they aren’t cleared out, then a bad smell often follows suit. You might imagine brushing your prosthetic will clean these tiny spaces, but the bristles can’t get into them. However, soaking them can allow for these places to be flushed out.
What Can I Do to Keep My Dentures Smelling Fresh?
While your dentures may not smell the best, there are ways you can get rid of their odor, such as:
- Brush your restoration twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and gentle, clear soap.
- Soak your dentures while you sleep in water or a prosthetic-specific cleaner. This will also preserve their shape.
- Don’t forget to wipe down your mouth, like your tongue, gums, and inner cheeks. By removing buildup, you can prevent bacteria from causing trouble.
- Drink water if you are more prone to dry mouth; that way, you have proper saliva production and can wash away plaque and food debris.
Everything above is great to do at home, but don’t forget to visit your dentist as well. By having routine checkups, they will be able to do in-depth cleanings. They have special instruments that’ll gently remove tartar that can’t be scrubbed off by regular brushing. You will also be able to get your dentures relined. That way, the fit stays comfortable and snug.
In the end, while this tooth replacement can develop an unpleasant smell, you can stop it and prevent it from happening again! Follow the easy tips above, and you can feel confident showing off your full smile and keep it fresh for longer.
About the Practice
At Sandy Lake Dental & Orthodontics, you benefit from a skilled team of dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are happy to help the Coppell community rebuild their grins with reliable treatments like dentures. By using high-quality materials, you can trust your results will look natural and feel comfortable. If you notice a bad smell coming from your prosthetic, schedule an appointment or call our office at (972) 393-7348.