The buildup of calcium on your false teeth is a common problem that denture wearers face. This accumulation, similar to tartar on natural teeth, can be challenging to remove with regular cleaning and brushing.
Calcium deposits on your dentures occurs when minerals from saliva, food particles, and water accumulate on the surface of the dentures over time. This mineralization process leads to the formation of hard deposits, often appearing as white or yellowish stains on the denture surfaces.
There are several factors that contribute to this, including poor oral hygiene, inadequate denture cleaning, and exposure to mineral-rich water sources.
How to deal with Calcium Buildup on Dentures
Dentures are typically made from materials such as acrylic, porcelain, or a combination of both. The microscopic pores in denture material provide a favorable environment for minerals to adhere and accumulate, resulting in stubborn deposits.
As such, denture materials are susceptible to calcium buildup due to their porous nature. Additionally, if your dentures contain metal parts, it’s essential to be cautious with certain cleaning methods to prevent corrosion.
Here are some tips to keep your dentures calcium free:
1. Regular Cleaning Routine
Maintaining a regular cleaning routine is crucial to minimize calcium buildup on dentures.
- After each meal, remove and rinse your dentures thoroughly to remove food particles and minimize the accumulation of minerals.
- Brush your dentures at least once a day using a soft brush and mild soap, dishwashing soap, or denture cleaner. This helps remove food and calcium deposits from the denture surfaces.
2. Soaking Dentures
Soaking your dentures overnight in water or a denture cleaning solution is an effective way to loosen and remove calcium buildup. If calcium deposits persist despite regular cleaning, you can try the following methods:
a. Bleach Solution:
Create a solution by adding one teaspoon of Calgon water softener to a glass containing a solution of one part bleach to 10 parts tap water. Soak your dentures in this solution for 20 to 30 minutes. However, if your dentures contain metal parts, avoid adding bleach as it can cause discoloration.
b. Vinegar Solution:
Dilute white vinegar with water in a 50:50 ratio and soak your dentures in the solution for 20 to 30 minutes. Vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant and helps dissolve calcium deposits. After soaking, brush your dentures to remove any remaining buildup. Be cautious with this method if you have partial dentures with metal components, as vinegar can corrode the metal.
3. Professional Cleaning
If heavy calcium buildup persists even after repeated attempts with home remedies, it is advisable to seek professional cleaning from your dentist. Dentists have access to specialized tools and techniques to effectively remove stubborn deposits and restore the cleanliness of your dentures.
During your dental appointment, the dentist or dental hygienist will assess the condition of your dentures, noting any areas of concern or damage. And then:
- Use specialized instruments to remove any loose debris or food particles from your dentures.
- Place the dentures in an ultrasonic cleaner. This device uses high-frequency sound waves and a cleaning solution to dislodge and remove stubborn stains, calculus, and bacteria from the denture surfaces.
- After the ultrasonic cleaning, the dentures will be thoroughly rinsed to remove any residual cleaning solution. The dental professional will then polish the dentures, restoring their shine and smoothness.
- Once the cleaning process is complete, the dental professional will inspect the dentures again, ensuring they are in good condition and fit properly.
Professional cleaning reaches areas that may be difficult to clean thoroughly at home, ensuring a more complete removal of stains, bacteria, and calculus.
Additional Tips for Preventing Calcium Deposits
- Always consult your dentist regarding the best soaking solution for your specific denture material, as different materials may have specific requirements.
- Test new cleaning solutions with a short soak to ensure they do not harm your dentures or leave an unpleasant taste.
- Be mindful of using natural and non-toxic cleaning products to protect both your health and the longevity of your dentures.
- Regularly brush your tongue, gums, and natural teeth with fluoride toothpaste to minimize plaque formation and calcium buildup.
Final Thoughts
Mineral deposits on your false teeth can be a persistent challenge for many denture wearers. By maintaining a regular cleaning routine, incorporating soaking methods, and seeking professional cleaning when necessary, you can effectively prevent and remove calcium deposits, ensuring the cleanliness and longevity of your dentures. Remember to consult your dentist for personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific denture type and oral health needs.
