For one reason or another, you’ve had a long day. You’re so tired that you glide through your nightly routine, barely aware of what you’re doing until you’re finally comfortable and cozy in your bed. Then it dawns on you – you’re still wearing your dentures. You completely forgot to drop them in their special cleaning solution for a soak.
Getting back out of bed is probably the last thing you want to do, but there are good reasons why you should! Keep reading to learn why soaking your dentures is so important.
There’s More Bacteria in Your Mouth
Your dentures aren’t exactly dainty. When you tap them, they likely feel just as solid as any other object. So would it surprise you to know that the base is porous? While the false teeth in your dentures could be made from a variety of materials, the base is likely acrylic, which absorbs bacteria more easily. Essentially, gum-disease-causing strains can take shelter in the pours!
Another reason there’s likely more bacteria in your mouth than you might think is that oral bacteria actually increase with age. Specifically, periodontal strains become more abundant over time, making it easier to develop gum disease. Overall, it’s best to clean your dentures as efficiently as possible!
Your Gums Need a Breather
Sleeping with your dentures is associated with poor gum health. This is because, believe it or not, your pink oral supports need to breathe. Like other areas of your body, gums require proper circulation in order to absorb vital nutrients from the bloodstream – as well as air out foul odors. Dentures are meant to fit snugly and constrict blood flow when worn, so taking them out before bed gives your gums a good six to eight hours to circulate.
Maximum Cleaning Efficiency
Brushing your dentures is all well and good – essential, even – but it’s not as thorough as soaking them. There are simply nooks and crannies that are easy to miss with a toothbrush, while a liquid cleaner can easily slip in and wash out pours. Plus, if you soak your dentures every night, it’ll be much easier to clean them in the morning. Let the cleaning solution do the hard work for you and enjoy the maximum efficiency.
At the end of the day, it’s important to get a good night’s rest. It might be difficult to do that if you’re thinking about all the bacteria that could be growing on your dentures! It’s worth taking “the walk of shame” back to your sink, preparing their cleaning solution, and dropping them in a glass. When you get up the next morning, your dentures will be ready to give you a fresh, squeaky-clean smile!
About the Practice
Dr. Nicole Sassounian and Dr. Albert Silvera would be happy to help you with all your oral – and denture-related – needs. Both dentists are highly experienced and passionate about their work. If you’re feeling a little grossed-out and would like your dentures professionally cleaned, Dr. Sassounian and Dr. Silvera will give them a pearly polishing! To contact their office, call 310-575-0886.