Essential Ingredients in Denture Tablets and Cleaning Tips

Denture wearers want to know that their dentures are clean and appear natural to family and friends. Daily cleaning and stain removal are essential for fresh breath and a natural smile according to Elements Dental Spa & Aesthetics Family Dentistry dental office in Baton Rouge. However, constant cleaning shortens the life of dentures, but people who do not clean dentures suffer from discomfort or fungal infections. What should denture wearers do?

Typical Cleaning Process

Many recommend brushing before and after soaking in an effervescent solution.

• Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
  A moderately soft-bristled toothbrush or a denture brush may be used to clean debris from dentures. The brush should always be moistened with water or a cleansing solution. Denture cleaners are available, but a dishwashing detergent mixed with water makes an effective cleaner. Lightly brush the dentures inside and outside until all loose debris is removed.`
• Soaking In Tablet Solutions
  Denture cleaners come in tablet form that dissolves in water. This solution kills bacteria removes stains and maintains the pliable quality of dentures.
  
  • Denture cleaning tablet ingredients, typically contain a blend of cleaning agents, antibacterial agents, and effervescent agents, with common ingredients including sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, and sodium perborate, among others. 
• Additional Brushing
  Some authorities recommend an additional brushing after soaking.
  

As with natural teeth, you may brush after every meal.

Ingredients in Denture Cleaners

Ingredients in denture cleaners serve the purpose of removing stains, killing bacteria or helping preserve the life and quality of the dentures.

• Common Sodium Bicarbonate
  Most denture cleaners contain baking soda. This ingredient gives the cleanser its fizzing sound and alkalizes the water to clean the dentures. It is nontoxic.
  
• Sodium Hypochlorite
  This ingredient is commonly known as bleach. This ingredient works as a disinfectant, whitens and removes stains from dentures. Unfortunately, it weakens and discolors dentures. Some people may be allergic to bleach. This ingredient may cause a mild tissue and is generally not a health risk. Large quantities or prolonged contact may cause burns to the throat, esophagus, or stomach.
  
• Citric Acid
  Citric acid is contained in lemons and limes. It is used in denture cleaners to remove stains. Fragrances, colors, and flavors are also found in denture cleansers. Peppermint, spearmint and menthol oils are among the most popular.
  
• Detergents and Enzymes
  Detergents and enzymes in denture cleaners are effective in removing plaque.
  
• Surfactants
  This ingredient is used to help reduce surface tensions while dentures are in dissolved liquids. Its function is to soften the water.
  
• Persulfate
  This ingredient is a cleaning and bleaching agent. It has recently caused concern for those who are allergic to it. Symptoms of the allergic reaction include tissue damage, tender gums, breathing problems and low blood pressure. If accidentally swallowed, it can cause more serious complications including death.

Conclusion

Since denture cleaners have the task of cleaning, bleaching and freshening, manufacturers use ingredients that may irritate the gums or cause other physical ailments. Since allergies may take years to develop, denture cleaner users should always be aware of the allergy symptoms that may result from using these products. Users should never gargle or swallow denture cleaners. For details about complete and partial dentures in Baton Rouge, you may contact Elements Dental Spa & Aesthetics Family Dentistry today!

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