Denture Care Guidelines for Caregivers

Importance of Denture Care

Proper care for dentures is crucial:

• Regular Cleaning: Dentures, like natural teeth, should be brushed twice daily.
• Remove Overnight: Remove dentures overnight to allow the gums to rest and prevent conditions like denture stomatitis or oral thrush.
• Storage: Keep dentures moist when not in use, ideally in a denture pot with water or salt water.
• Cleaning Agents: Use cleaning agents as directed by the manufacturer but supplement with manual brushing.

How to Clean Dentures

Effective techniques for cleaning dentures:

• Brushing: Use a toothbrush or denture brush with non-abrasive toothpaste or denture cream over a bowl of water.
• Removing Dentures: Gently slide fingers along the cheek side to break the seal and remove dentures carefully.
• Fixatives: Apply denture fixative sparingly for comfort, ensuring both dentures and mouth are dry.

Managing Loose Dentures

Addressing concerns with loose dentures:

• Consult a Dentist: If dentures are persistently loose, seek advice from a dentist, especially in stable conditions.
• Naming Dentures: Request the dentist to add the patient's name in the denture's acrylic to prevent misplacement.

Loose dentures can pose risks for individuals with advancing dementia and swallowing difficulties.