Denture plaque, or tartar on dentures as commonly referred to, is a widespread problem that can reduce the longevity and appearance of false teeth. When untreated, it produces false teeth stains, odor, and discomfort, not to mention an increased risk of infections. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to learn how to remove tartar from false teeth at home and professionally and effectively. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning dentures, removing hardened plaque on dentures, and maintaining good oral hygiene to keep your false teeth in perfect condition.
Understanding Tartar On Dentures
Tartar, or calculus, on dentures, occurs when plaque (a soft film of bacteria and food particles) hardens over time because it was improperly cleaned. It may cause staining, offensive smells, and even gum inflammation. The knowledge about tartar formation on the denture highlights the trap of neglecting proper care, cleaning, and cleaning such cases from everyday life.
How Tartar Forms On Dentures
Denture Tartar Tartar forms on dentures, or denture tartar, when bacteria and food particles accumulate on the surface of the false teeth over time. This debris hardens and is difficult to remove with regular brushing if dentures are not cleaned regularly. These rich organic biofilms, or plaque, develop on natural teeth but can be even worse on dentures because certain denture materials are porous. The remaining plaque cannot harden and turn to tartar, which changes colors and looks unsightly.
Differences Between Plaque And Tartar
Plaque and tartar are unwelcome deposits on the surfaces of your dentures, but there are essential differences between the two. Plaque is a yellow substance that develops on the surface of your denture(s). This can be removed by daily cleaning and brushing. Tartar, all up, is plaque’s hardened equivalent. Once plaque hardens into tartar, it is far harder to dislodge and requires more aggressive measures, such as specialized cleaning solutions or a trip to your dentist. So, cleaning your dentures regularly is essential to prevent plaque from developing into tartar.
Effective Ways To Remove Tartar At Home
Denture-safe cleaning solutions, vinegar and baking soda, and regular brushing are some of the most effective methods for removing tartar at home. Immersing dentures overnight in a cleansing solution can help soften tartar for easier removal. Daily cleaning for dentures is critical to prevent tartar and keep dentures fresh.
Using Denture-Safe Cleaning Solutions
The best method for cleaning synthetic teeth and removing tartar from dentures at home is to use a cleaning solution that is safe for denture use. Denture cleaners are made to be gentle on dentures while still breaking down plaque and tartar effectively. Available in cleaning tablets, powders, and gels, these solutions are simple to add to your routine.
Best Products For Tartar Removal
The best denture cleaner for tartar removal should have active ingredients such as enzymes, oxygenating agents, and abrasives to break down plaque and soften hardened tartar. Polident, Efferdent and Steradent are some common ones. You can use them daily for maintenance or once a week for deeper cleaning to help keep tartar from building up on your dentures.
How Often To Clean Dentures To Prevent Tartar
Daily cleaning of your dentures is key to removing debris and preventing tartar from building up over time. In addition to brushing your dentures with denture-safe toothpaste, soaking them in a cleaning solution every night helps eliminate any lingering plaque and soften any tartar that may have begun to form. Cleaning regularly will help ensure your dentures stay in tip-top shape and reduce the need to consider more intensive denture tartar removal methods.
Other Natural Tartar Remover Remedies
Natural Cleaning Methods If you want to take a more natural approach to cleaning your dentures, you can try a few remedies to help remove tartar. The best part is that these natural alternatives are very effective, inexpensive, and safe for people who wear dentures, as long as they are used correctly.
White Vinegar Soak For Tartar Softening
White vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can also help soften tartar buildup. Soak your dentures in equal parts white vinegar and water for 15-30 minutes. When dry, scrub time! This method can benefit light tartar buildup, but it must be followed up with a thorough rinse in clean water to ensure no vinegar is left on your dentures.
Baking Soda And Water Paste
Another option is baking soda, a natural baking ingredient that is a gentle abrasive that helps remove plaque and tartar. Mix equal parts baking soda and water to make a paste. Apply the paste to your dentures with a soft toothbrush and gently scrub the stained area(s). Baking soda’s deodorizing ability can also help prevent your dentures from smelling bad while removing stains or buildup.
Professional Cleaning Options For Severe Tartar
If your tartar buildup is severe, it is recommended that you seek professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. Professional cleaning methods, such as ultrasonic cleaning and manual scaling, can help remove stubborn tartar that home remedies may not cover. Professional treatments make dentures look good, extend their lifespan, and improve oral health.
When To Visit A Dentist For Deep Cleaning
While regular brushing at home can prevent tartar from forming, sometimes the buildup is too much for home remedies to fix. If your dentures are stained, look dirty, or have a foul odor despite cleaning, it might be time to seek a professional for denture cleaning. A dentist or dental hygienist possesses the instruments and knowledge to do a deep clean and eliminate calcified plaque or tartar that over-the-counter products can’t.
A professional denture clean can remove tartar and polish your dentures, restoring their natural shine and appearance. This also prevents any permanent damage that improper cleaning methods may cause.
Best Professional Treatments For Tartar On False Teeth
Dentist cleaning uses ultrasonic devices, specially designed instruments, and powerful cleaning agents to remove tartar from dentures. A standard method is ultrasonic cleaning, which involves putting the dentures into a machine that uses sound waves to dislodge plaque and tartar gently. Just as with how a dentist scrapes away hardened tartar off of your teeth, this can also be done to dentures using hand scaling, which is essentially hand scraping by a dental professional.
Your dentist can also suggest polishing treatments to severely stained dentures that restore their smooth surface and help prevent future buildup. Professional cleaning occurs every six months to a year, depending on your dentures’ condition and how well you keep up with it at home.
Regularly Clean False Teeth To Keep Them Healthy
Regular cleaning is the key to keeping your false teeth clean, fresh, and tartar-free. Home remedies, denture-safe cleaning products, or professional treatments can all help keep dentures clean and tartar-free, extend their life, and maintain oral health.
But if you’re unsure how to care for dentures correctly or have been struggling with tartar buildup, it’s best to make an appointment with a professional. Whether you are looking for tips for cleaning dentures or professional denture cleaning services, we’re here to help at Dental Faith.
Call Dental Faith today to book your consultation and maintain your false teeth’ health and appearance!
What Causes Tartar To Build Up On Dentures?
Tartar develops on dentures when food particles and bacteria interact to create plaque, which will mineralize and harden over time if not cleaned regularly. This is also why sour foods can lead to plaque becoming tartar if it does not foul. Some denture types have more porous surfaces and are capable of tartar buildup.
Can Tartar Damage False Teeth?
Yes, tartar can harm false teeth by greasing their surface and making them more susceptible to staining and bacteria build-up. This tartar can eventually make the dentures dull and less effective. It can also irritate the gums, potentially increasing the risk of oral health issues.
What Is The Best Way To Remove Tartar At Home?
The most effective method of tartar removal for at-home methods focuses on denture-safe cleansers containing denture-safe cleansers that dissolve the plaque and soften tartar. Soaking dentures in white vinegar or applying a baking soda paste are other natural remedies that may be helpful. To make it easier, brush your dentures regularly and soak them overnight.