How to clean your dentures properly, step by step.

Cleaning a denture properly is straightforward once it's part of your routine - here's the process Paul recommends to every patient.

Your daily routine

1. Rinse your denture under running water after each meal to clear away loose food particles.
2. At least once a day, remove your denture and brush it gently with a denture brush and mild soap or a proper denture cleaner - not regular toothpaste, which is too abrasive.
3. Brush every surface, including the underside that sits against your gums, where plaque tends to build up.
4. Rinse thoroughly before putting it back in, especially if you've used a soaking solution.
5. Brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth gently with a soft brush before replacing your denture.

Overnight

Take your denture out at night and store it in water or a proper soaking solution rather than leaving it dry - this gives your gums a rest and prevents the denture material from warping.

What to avoid

• Regular toothpaste, which is too abrasive for denture material
• Hot water, which can warp the denture
• Bleach-based cleaners, unless specifically made for dentures
• Handling your denture over a hard surface - always use a folded towel or a basin of water in case you drop it

If something doesn't come clean

Stubborn staining or a persistent odour that doesn't clear with regular cleaning is worth mentioning at your next check-up - it can sometimes indicate the denture needs a professional clean or that something in your routine needs adjusting.