Dentures can be expensive and must be kept clean to remain attractive and last. Commercial denture cleaners also can be costly, but there are there are cleaning solutions you can make at home.
Vinegar
Vinegar has long been used to fight germs. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a cup big enough to hold your dentures. Let them soak for 20 to 30 minutes. Use a denture brush to clear away any soft tartar that remains. Rinse thoroughly before replacing them in your mouth.
Baking Soda
Baking soda cleans and deodorizes many things. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 8 ounces of water and let your dentures soak for 20 minutes.
Bleach
A solution of one part bleach to 10 parts water is a very effective way to kill germs and whiten dentures. Adding a teaspoon of water softener (not detergent or soap) to the mixture will help soften and remove tartar.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Simply soaking your dentures in hydrogen peroxide is a very inexpensive way to keep them clean.
Combination
Because household cleaners have different properties, rotate their use. Use a bleach solution one day, peroxide the next, baking soda the next, for example.
Tips
Always use care when handling dentures. Remove them carefully from your mouth and carry them in a cup or dish to avoid dropping them.
When brushing your dentures, stand over a sink filled with water or lined with paper towels to protect them if they fall.
If you are cleaning someone else's dentures, wear gloves to avoid spreading germs. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the dentures.
While the dentures are soaking, brush your teeth and gums thoroughly. Use mouthwash to kill germs and freshen breath.
Wash your dentures after every meal.
Apply an aloe vera gel to your dentures once or twice a day to inhibit fungal growth.
Warning
Denture cleaners can corrode metal parts and soften or discolor denture material. Soak dentures only for the duration indicated.
See your dentist if any problems develop.
Tags: your dentures, baking soda, handling dentures, kill germs, soak minutes