Why Do My Dentures Smell Bad?

It can be very frustrating when your dentures start to smell bad.

The buildup of food particles and bacteria in the crevices of the dentures or along the gum line frequently causes this. Other potential reasons for bad breath include inadequate oral hygiene, poor-fitting dentures, or an oral infection.

In this post, we talk more about the causes of denture breath and how to avoid it.

Avoiding denture breath

If you notice an unpleasant odour from your dentures when you breathe with your mask on or try to smell it directly, it's important to take steps to identify its cause. Here are some ways to find out the reason behind denture breath and avoid it for good.

• Clean your dentures. One reason dentures tend to smell bad is the buildup of deposits and odour-causing bacteria in them. Even though dentures look solid, deposits can still cling to them. To avoid this issue, brush your dentures daily with a non-abrasive cleanser to remove food particles and plaque that can result in an unpleasant smell. Be sure to use a gentle cleaning tool to avoid damaging them.
  
  
• Soak them overnight. Soak your dentures overnight in a cleaning solution or antibacterial mouthwash specifically formulated for denture care. Deep cleaning dentures once a day will help get rid of deposits that can otherwise accumulate and cause an unpleasant smell and may not be removed by brushing alone.
  
  
• Maintain good oral hygiene. Oral hygiene itself is important to keep your dentures smelling fresh. Pay attention to all surfaces and areas when brushing your teeth, floss between any real teeth at least once daily, and don’t forget to clean your tongue with a tongue scraper. It can also help to rinse your mouth with an antiseptic (non-alcohol) mouthwash to get rid of more bacteria. By maintaining good dental care practices and fighting bad breath, you can also avoid denture breath.
  
  
• Have your dentures checked regularly. Have your dentures adjusted when necessary to ensure a proper fit. No matter how often you clean your dentures, they may still cause odour and discomfort if they don’t fit right. Poorly fitting dentures can result in sore spots or irritation on the gum line, which can lead to infection and a stinky smell.

Do older people tend to have bad breath?

No, not necessarily. While older adults are more likely to experience dry mouth due to medications or medical conditions and may be prone to certain oral health problems, these issues can affect people of any age.

The main causes of bad breath include poor dental hygiene habits, inadequate saliva production, food particles trapped between teeth or dentures, and certain medical conditions. Therefore, no matter what your age, it’s crucial to practice good oral hygiene habits and receive regular dental checkups.

Are there foods that can result in bad breath?

Foods with sulphur compounds, such as garlic and onions, can contribute to the unpleasant smell.

Also, dairy products can lead to a buildup of bacteria in the mouth, which can cause bad breath. Sugary and acidic foods can also contribute to bad breath due to the formation of plaque on the teeth and gums.

Additionally, snacks that are high in carbohydrates, such as cakes, cookies, chips, and crackers, can cling to your teeth or get trapped between your teeth and dentures, leading to bad breath.

Consult with your denturist in St. Catharines, ON

If your dentures still tend to have an unpleasant smell even after taking steps to reduce and avoid it, a comprehensive denture checkup can help pinpoint the underlying cause.

To speak with a denturist in St. Catharines, ON, about proper denture care or have your dentures checked, connect with us at Hayven Dentures. Our team members are happy to assist you with your inquiries and arrange an appointment with one of our denturists.