Like natural teeth, dentures can become dull over time. Foods, beverages, and smoking all contribute to stains on teeth, and dentures are no exception. Brighter dentures are just as important to your appearance and self-esteem as whiter teeth. Fortunately, there are a number of tips you can follow for keeping your smile healthy and your dentures bright.

1. Daily Brushing. Whether you wear partial or complete dentures, like natural teeth, you need to clean them every day. Otherwise, plaque and tartar can form, staining and discoloring the teeth.

   Although porcelain false teeth are more resistant to stains, they are more expensive than dentures made from acrylic. But because acrylic is a form of plastic, dentures can become scratches with wear, causing the teeth to become less stain resistant.

   Use either a soft toothbrush or a brush designed for cleaning dentures. Denture brushes are larger in size than regular toothbrushes and have two brush heads.

2. Soaking. Soak your dentures overnight in a solution specially formulated for cleaning false teeth. Another option is to soak your dentures in a solution containing equal parts water and white vinegar to help remove tartar and stains. Brush them in the morning and rinse thoroughly before putting the teeth back in your mouth.

3. Whitening products. Use a whitening product made for dentures. Whiteners – including whitening toothpastes – intended for natural teeth are too harsh and abrasive for dentures. Teeth whiteners for natural teeth can damage the finish of dentures, which is softer than tooth enamel.

   Don't use bleach to whiten your dentures. Soaking them in a solution of bleach can remove the color from the dentures. You also don't want to whiten your false teeth to a brighter shade then they were new.

4. Mild soap. Wash your dentures with a few drops of a mild liquid dish or hand soap – just be sure to rinse them thoroughly with warm water before wearing. Never soak or rinse false teeth in hot water, as acrylic dentures can warp when they dry.

   When regular tooth brushing isn't enough to remove stains, the use of bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) is another inexpensive denture-whitening method. Make a paste with the bicarbonate of soda and dish soap. Brush your dentures using a circular motion.

5. Professional cleaning. Your dentist can polish your dentures and remove tough stains. He or she may use a tool called an ultrasonic denture cleaner to loosen debris and clean stains from the surface of your dentures. Home units are available as well.

6. New dentures. If you've had your dentures for many years, it may be time for a new set, particularly if your jaw has changed with age and you need a better fit.

Although there are many shades of white available, it's important to choose a shade that looks natural. You can go lighter, but dentures that are too white can tip off others that they are false. To learn more, contact someone like Accent On Dentistry - Rowena R Martir DMD.

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