Can I Get My Dentures Whitened?

Like natural teeth, dentures can also become stained.

What you eat and drink and how you take care of your natural teeth can impact the appearance of your dentures. Over time, you might notice your dentures turning dull, and you might wonder if it’s possible to safely whiten them.

There are steps you can take at home to improve their look, but if you’re concerned about damaging your oral appliance, you can also seek professional assistance from your denturist.

Steps to lighten the shade of your dentures at home

It’s possible to whiten the shade of your dentures, but it’s important to be cautious. Some cleaners aren’t recommended as they can be too abrasive, such as hard-bristled brushes and some toothpaste variants.

Here are some ways you can improve their appearance by reaching for items you might already have at home.

  1. Clean your dentures daily

    The longer debris stays on dentures, the harder it’ll be to remove it. Daily cleaning will prevent deposits from clinging to their surfaces and affecting their function and appearance. In short, proper maintenance is the key to keeping your dentures looking their best.

    Regular denture cleaning also prevents the buildup of harmful bacteria that can increase the risk of oral problems, such as gum disease.

  2. Use expert-recommended denture cleaners

    Denture cleaners, such as effervescent solutions, are formulated for dentures. They’re gentle and effective in removing residues. Often, over time, deep cleaning is required for maximum effect. Talk to your dentist or denturist about products they trust and recommend for your case.

  3. Use white vinegar or baking soda

    Other DIY denture cleaners you can try at home are white vinegar and baking soda.

    Place your dentures in a container with vinegar and water solution for at least 30 minutes, or leave them overnight. Then, rinse them with cold water. You can also make a paste with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to be applied to your dentures using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

  4. Don’t use hot water or bleach

    Hot or boiling water can warp your dentures, so avoid using it for cleaning. Using bleach is also not recommended, as it can wear away at the material of the denture, causing it to weaken over time. Additionally, the whitening agents can also cause staining and discoloration.

Effective denture cleaning begins with your daily habits

Keeping your dentures clean is an important part of their longevity and appearance. Make sure to brush them daily with a denture cleaner and soak them in a cleaning solution overnight.

It's also important to visit your dentist for regular checkups to ensure your dentures are still correctly fitting. This will help keep them looking their best without resorting to whitening treatments.

If you are not satisfied with the results of home remedies, you can also discuss having your dentures professionally cleaned. This can give you the whitening results you’ve been looking for. Dentures that are too old may no longer benefit as much from these treatments, and you might be better off investing in a new set.

That said, if you're considering getting new dentures or replacing old ones, you may want to get a set that is already whitened. This way, you can maintain their colour without worrying about using any harsh agents or products that could damage them.

Talk to your dentist or denturist in St. Catharine’s, ON, for more information and advice on which type of dentures would be best for you. Our team at Hayven Dentures is also happy to assist you. Contact us today!