Bright white teeth have become a fixation in today’s society, featured prominently in advertising, among celebrities, and on influencers. A radiant white smile is often associated with health, energy, and vitality.
While commercial teeth whitening products have been available since the 1980s, it is normal for those with false teeth to wonder how to whiten dentures and achieve a bright smile.
Similar to natural teeth, dentures can develop stains over time. Fortunately, there are multiple remedies available to help whiten them.
Why Do Dentures Get Discolored?
Dentures are usually made of acrylic, which is prone to staining, much like natural teeth. Over time, the food items and beverages that you consume can cause discoloration. Common offenders include coffee, berries, tomato sauce, and red wine.
Other usual culprits that can discolor your dentures include:
- Certain staining foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and tomato sauce.
- Smoking or using other tobacco products containing tar and nicotine, which can lead to yellowing and staining of dentures.
- Inadequate cleaning that allows food particles and plaque to accumulate on dentures, leading to discoloration.
- The interaction between saliva and bacteria in the mouth, which contributes to staining.
- Certain cleaning products or chemicals used on dentures which can sometimes cause discoloration if not used correctly.
Thankfully, there are various methods that you can employ and learn how to whiten dentures.
How to Whiten Dentures in 5 Effective Ways
Develop a Routine to Clean Your Dentures Daily
Your dentures tend to accumulate plaque and stains over time if they are not cleaned properly and regularly. Over time, plaque can harden and darken, making it difficult to remove with brushing alone.
The proper method for cleaning denture stains involves using denture paste or liquid soap and a denture brush to scrub away plaque and stains that have accumulated since the last cleaning. Preventing plaque and stains from building up is easier if cleaning is done regularly.
Developing a routine to clean your dentures daily helps you learn how to whiten dentures and maintain them over time.
Use Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can be an excellent at-home solution for removing stains from dentures when used properly and in moderation.
To use this method, mix ½ cup of warm water with ½ cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide and soak your dentures in the solution for 30 minutes. Ensure the water is at least room temperature, but avoid using hot water.
After soaking, remove the dentures and gently brush them with a soft-bristled brush and denture-specific toothpaste to remove any remaining peroxide and debris.
Note: Do not use hydrogen peroxide and hot water if you have flexible dentures, as they can damage and distort the softer material.
Whiten with Denture Cleansers
When looking for tips on how to whiten dentures, denture cleansers can be a super effective way to do so.
Denture cleansers are effervescent solutions that effectively remove surface stains and provide whitening benefits for your dentures that go beyond what traditional toothpaste can achieve. Choose a product designed specifically for brightening and soaking your dentures for 15-30 minutes. Opt for a professionally rated product for the best results.
Keep in mind that while these solutions are excellent for tackling surface stains and most discoloration, they may not address deeper stains. If your dentures are damaged and need repair, consult your dentist to have any cracks, chips, or broken pieces fixed promptly.
Brush with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a common household item which you can use to create an effective brightening paste for whitening your dentures.
To use it, dampen a very soft-bristled brush with warm water and dip it into a small amount of baking soda. Since baking soda can be abrasive and may cause minor scratches if used too vigorously, apply it sparingly.
Gently brush the mixture over the entire surface of your denture, ensuring you cover every area.
After brushing, rinse the dentures thoroughly with warm water to remove all baking soda particles.
Schedule a Professional Cleaning
A professional denture cleaning has the advantage of allowing a trained eye to inspect your dentures for any minor damages or imperfections you might have missed. It’s also an opportunity to address other concerns, such as soreness or an ill-fitting denture. You can also take tips from your dentist on how to whiten dentures and keep them clean.
Tips for Preventing Denture Stains
- Remove dentures at night: Remove dentures before bed to allow your gums and dentures to rest. Soaking them in a denture cleaner overnight can help prevent staining.
- Regular cleaning: Clean your dentures daily as part of your oral care routine. Use a soft-bristle brush and a gentle denture cleaner. This practice helps avoid plaque buildup and staining.
- Avoid staining substances: Reduce your intake of substances that can cause staining, such as coffee, tea, and tobacco, to minimize discoloration.
- Routine dental check-ups: Frequent visits to your dentist can help identify and resolve any denture issues early on, preventing stains from becoming deeply ingrained.
Conclusion
Regular dental visits are key to continually learning how to whiten dentures.
Your dentist will advise you on how often you should come in for check-ups. During these visits, your dentures can be cleaned and checked for any potential damage.
Schedule an appointment with ProGrace Dentistry and get expert tips on how to whiten dentures and keep them clean.
FAQs
Does salt whiten dentures?
You can soak your dentures in a saltwater solution overnight to disinfect and sanitize them. Additionally, salt can be used for cleaning by dipping a damp toothbrush in salt and scrubbing away any stains.
Can I use bleach to clean my dentures?
Bleach is a highly corrosive and toxic substance that can significantly damage your dentures, especially if left to soak. Using bleach may not only fail to achieve the desired whitening effect but can also permanently discolor the denture teeth and damage the acrylic gums.
