Keeping Your Dental Appliances Clean

The importance of cleaning dentures, braces and removable aligners

When we think about cleaning our teeth, most of us know what we are supposed to do. Brush twice a day, clean between the teeth using floss or an interdental brush and try not to eat too much sugar. But what about the dental appliances that some of us wear?

Dentures, braces, removable aligners, retainers and mouthguards all spend a considerable amount of time in or around the mouth. They can collect food particles, plaque and bacteria just as our teeth can. If they are not cleaned properly, they can start to smell, become discoloured and, in some cases, contribute to problems with the teeth and gums. The good news is that keeping them clean does not usually take a great deal of effort. Some practical advice from the team at the SG Dental and Implant Centre follows.

Denture cleaning

Dentures are often worn for most of the day, so they deserve the same attention as our natural teeth. Food can become trapped underneath a denture or around the edges, while bacteria and plaque can build up on its surface. This can contribute to bad breath and irritation of the gums. Dentures should generally be removed and cleaned regularly. It is also important to clean your gums, tongue and the roof of your mouth, particularly if you wear a full denture.

A soft denture brush can be useful. Ordinary toothpaste is not always recommended because some types can be abrasive and may scratch the surface of the denture. If you have been advised to soak your dentures, use a product specifically designed for this purpose and follow the instructions. Avoid using very hot water, as this can potentially distort the denture. Remember that while it might be tempting to leave your dentures in overnight, removing them will give the tissues underneath a chance to rest.

Braces can be difficult to clean around

Fixed braces present a different challenge. The brackets and wires create lots of little spaces where food and plaque can collect. This means that brushing needs a little more care than usual. This is particularly important when it comes to cleaning around the brackets and along the gum line. Specialist orthodontic brushes, interdental brushes and other cleaning aids can make this considerably easier. Our local dentist or orthodontist can show you which ones are most suitable.

Removable aligners

Clear aligners such as Invisalign have become increasingly popular for straightening crooked teeth because they are much less noticeable than traditional braces. They are also removable, which makes brushing the teeth much easier. It is also important though, to clean the aligners themselves. They should be cleaned regularly according to the instructions provided by our Burton dentists. When you remove them to eat, it is also a good idea to clean your teeth before putting them back in, even if this means a simple rinse with water if you are eating out, for example. If you don’t do this, food particles and bacteria can become trapped against the teeth for longer periods.

Don’t use hot water to clean your aligners. They are made from plastic type materials that can potentially be distorted by heat.

What about retainers?

Once orthodontic treatment is finished, many patients are asked to wear a retainer to help keep their teeth in their new positions. These can be removable or fixed, and removable ones need regular cleaning. It is easy to forget about a retainer once the braces have disappeared, but it still spends hours in your mouth. If it is not cleaned, it can develop an unpleasant smell and collect bacteria. Clean it according to the instructions you have been given and keep it safely in its case when you are not wearing it.

Mouthguards

If you often play contact sports such as football or rugby, you may have been recommended to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth during play. This is especially important for sports where there is a risk of being hit in the mouth or face by the ball, or indeed, by a flying elbow. After wearing a mouthguard, make sure that you rinse it and clean it as recommended. Allow it to dry properly before putting it back into its case. Never leave a damp mouthguard sealed away for long periods. A dark, damp environment is not particularly helpful when you are trying to keep something clean. It is also worth checking the mouthguard from time to time. If it has become damaged or no longer fits properly, speak to your dentist about whether it needs replacing.

Night guards

Some people wear a night guard because they grind or clench their teeth while sleeping. As with other removable appliances, it can collect saliva, bacteria and debris. Make sure that you give it a proper clean when you remove it in the morning and allow it to dry before storing it.

If the guard starts to look damaged or does not fit in the same way, have it checked. Teeth can move over time, and the appliance itself can wear.

Don’t forget your natural teeth

There is little point in cleaning dental appliances if you neglect your natural teeth. These still need regular care as well. Some appliances, such as fixed braces, can make this more difficult but a little care and persistence should enable you to clean them effectively. We are always happy to offer advice on this.

If you are concerned about any of your appliances, whether you feel they don’t fit as they once did, or perhaps they have started to smell or taste unpleasant, the best thing to do is to make an appointment at the SG Dental and Implant Centre and bring them with you so that we can make recommendations. You can contact our Burton dental practice on 01283 845345.