How to Remove Dentures: 12-Step Guide for Cleaning, Storing & Caring for Gums

Removing Your Dentures: A Step-By-Step Guide

Getting used to wearing dentures can take some time. While dentures allow you to eat and speak normally, they do feel different than your natural teeth. One of the things you'll need to get used to is properly removing your dentures.

Taking out dentures requires a bit of practice at first. However, once you get the hang of it, removing your dentures will become second nature.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll go over everything you need to know about taking out your dentures correctly and safely.

Why Do You Need to Remove Your Dentures?

You should take your dentures out twice per day to clean them thoroughly. It's also important to give your gums a break from the pressure of the dentures resting on them.

Here are some of the key reasons to remove your dentures daily:

• Prevent bacterial buildup - Food and plaque can get trapped under dentures if you don't remove them. This can lead to bacterial overgrowth that causes bad breath and infection.
• Clean thoroughly - Dentures need to be cleaned every day to keep them free of stain-causing coffee, tea, and tobacco. The only way to properly brush all surfaces is by taking them out.
• Promote gum health - Your gums need time to rest from the pressure of dentures. Removing them periodically prevents irritation, inflammation, and sores.
• Allow tissues to shrink - Your gum tissue may shrink slightly over time after tooth extraction. Taking dentures out lets your gums readjust.
• Inspect for damage - You can check for cracked, bent, or worn parts when you take dentures out daily. This allows you to get repairs done before major damage occurs.

Supplies Needed for Removing Dentures

You don't need much equipment to remove your dentures safely. Here are the basic supplies you should have on hand:

• Sink filled with water - Cool or lukewarm water is needed to loosen the dentures before removal.
• Towel - Place a towel in the sink or on a counter to set dentures after removal.
• Denture brush - Use a soft-bristle denture brush and denture cleaner to scrub the dentures.
• Mild liquid soap - Dish soap or hand soap works well for cleaning off sticky foods and plaque.
• Denture container - An enclosed container keeps dentures protected and prevents them from drying out when storing.

How to Remove Upper vs. Lower Dentures

Removing lower dentures is a slightly different process than taking out upper dentures. Here's a quick overview of what to expect with each:

Removing lower dentures

• Lower dentures rely on suction against the gums to stay in place.
• Start by using your fingertip to gently loosen the lower denture from your gums.
• Carefully begin peeling the denture downward to break the seal.
• Use your thumbs to press the denture out of your mouth.

Removing upper dentures

• Upper dentures typically rely on dental adhesive to bond to the roof of your mouth.
• Use your finger to sweep inside your upper lip and cheek to loosen adhesive remnants.
• Gently peel the upper denture downward from your upper gums.
• Wiggle it side to side to fully release the seal and take it out.

12-Step Guide to Removing Dentures

Follow these steps each time you take out your dentures:

1. Wash your hands.

Wash with antibacterial soap and warm water. This prevents transferring dirt and germs to your dentures or mouth.

2. Fill sink with cool water.

Use enough water to fully submerge the dentures. Lukewarm water also works if you prefer.

3. Loosen upper denture first.

Insert your finger into your cheek and gently slide it around to help release the upper denture. Breaking the seal first makes removal easier.

4. Tilt head forward over sink.

Tilting your head allows gravity to help loosen your upper denture as saliva accumulates.

5. Wiggle denture side to side.

Gently start wiggling the upper denture back and forth from side to side. The motion helps loosen the seal.

6. Peel upper denture downward.

Continue peeling the upper denture down bit by bit until it's released from your gums.

7. Remove upper denture fully.

Once loosened, carefully remove the entire upper denture and place in sink.

8. Rinse mouth with water.

Swish water around your mouth to remove any remaining adhesive or debris.

9. Loosen lower denture.

Use your finger to slide along the lower gumline and loosen the lower denture's seal.

10. Press lower denture outward.

Use your thumbs to gently press down on both sides of the lower denture to break the suction.

11. Remove lower denture fully.

Lift the loosened lower denture out of your mouth and place in sink.

12. Rinse dentures under water.

Rinse both dentures briefly under cool, running water to remove food debris.

Tips for Removing Dentures Painlessly

If you feel significant pain or discomfort when taking out your dentures, try these tips:

• Go slowly - Remove dentures gradually instead of pulling them out forcefully.
• Use dental adhesive solvent - Adhesive remover wipes can help loosen stubborn upper dentures.
• Wait 10 minutes after eating - Let your saliva naturally loosen dentures before attempting removal.
• See your dentist - Ill-fitting dentures that constantly rub can make removal painful. A dentist can adjust the fit.
• Handle over a sink with towel - This prevents dropped dentures from breaking into pieces.
• Keep gums moisturized - Massage denture-safe gum balm into gums when dentures are out.

Storing Your Dentures Correctly

It's important to store dentures properly after removal to keep them in optimal condition. Here are some key denture storage tips:

• Clean dentures before storing - Brush with a denture cleanser and lukewarm water.
• Use a storage container - Place in an enclosed case or filled container of water.
• Don't let dentures dry out - Always keep moist by soaking in water or using a hydrating solution.
• Keep pairs together - Store upper and lower dentures together to prevent loss or mixing up.
• Store safely - Choose a sturdy container that won't crack if dropped.
• Keep away from heat - Don't store dentures in hot places like a parked car in summer.
• Follow any special instructions - If you have temporary dentures, your dentist may recommend special storage methods.

What to Avoid When Removing Dentures

Certain actions can damage dentures when you go to take them out. Be sure to avoid:

• Pulling too forcefully - This can warp or crack acrylic resin dentures.
• Popping dentures out with your tongue - Your tongue could inadvertently launch dentures into the sink or trash.
• Using sharp tools - Metal nail files, knives, or screwdrivers could scratch the dentures.
• Twisting the dentures - Excess twisting stresses the plastic and metal parts.
• Storing dentures dry - Letting dentures dry out causes warping and bacterial growth.
• Leaving out dentures too long - More than 12 hours allows your gums to shrink.
• Removing over a hard surface - Opt for a sink, towel or cushioned surface in case you drop them.

Cleaning Dentures Properly After Removal

Once you've removed your dentures, it's time to give them a thorough cleaning. Here are the basic steps to clean dentures correctly:

1. Rinse under cool water

After removal, immediately rinse dentures under a stream of lukewarm water. This helps remove sticky food debris and mucus.

2. Wash with soap and water

Work a small amount of hand soap or dish soap into a lather. Gently scrub surfaces to remove plaque and stains.

3. Rinse again

Rinse thoroughly with cool water again to remove all soap residue. Trapped soap can irritate your gums.

4. Soak in denture cleaner

Soak dentures for 20-30 minutes in an effervescent denture cleaning solution dissolved in warm water.

5. Brush with denture brush

Use a soft denture brush and toothpaste to gently scrub all denture surfaces.

6. Rinse dentures

Give dentures a final rinse under running water to remove any remaining cleaning solution or toothpaste.

7. Air dry

Allow dentures to air dry for 5-10 minutes on a towel before wearing again or storing.

How Often Should You Clean Dentures?

Ideally, you should give your dentures a thorough cleaning twice per day - once in the morning and once before bedtime. Quick rinses after eating can also help dislodge food particles.

Denture Brush vs Toothbrush

A denture brush has softer bristles designed not to damage the plastic or acrylic resin. The angled shape allows you to easily scrub all surfaces.

Regular toothbrushes have harder bristles that can eventually cause microscopic scratches. For best results, opt for a brush made just for dentures.

Denture Cleaning Pastes, Powders and Soaks

Specialized denture cleaning solutions use active ingredients to thoroughly sanitize and deodorize:

• Pastes - Include abrasives to help scrub away stubborn plaque and tartar.
• Powders - Contain sodium bicarbonate to break up debris and neutralize odors.
• Soaks - Fizzy tablets foam and lift away organic matter as they dissolve.

Look for products labeled "denture cleanser" on the packaging. Avoid regular toothpastes, which can be too abrasive.

Can You Use Toothpaste to Clean Dentures?

Yes, regular toothpaste can be used in a pinch to brush dentures. However, toothpaste is often too abrasive for the soft plastic and can lead to microscopic scratches over time. Specialty denture pastes and gels are recommended.

Caring for Your Gums After Removing Dentures

It's important to care for your gums properly when dentures are out. Follow these tips:

1. Rinse your mouth

Gently swish water around your gums after denture removal to dislodge food and rehydrate tissues.

2. Massage your gums

Use a clean fingertip to gently massage and stimulate circulation in your gums.

3. Apply gum balm

Smooth a small amount of moisturizing gum balm over your gums to prevent dryness.

4. Don't wear dentures for 6-8 hours

Give your gums a 6-8 hour break from dentures each day. This allows your gums to rest.

5. Check for irritation

Inspect your gums closely for redness, sores, swelling or irritation, which may indicate an ill-fitting denture.

6. See your dentist if necessary

Schedule an adjustment appointment if your bare gums remain tender or uncomfortable.

Troubleshooting Denture Removal Problems

Removing dentures can sometimes be challenging, especially when you first get them. Here are some common removal problems and fixes:

Dentures feel very tight

New dentures may fit tightly until your gums adapt. Try using adhesive solvent, rinsing your mouth with warm water, and wiggling the dentures gently from side-to-side to help loosen the seal.

Dentures won't stay in

If dentures become loose too quickly after insertion, you may need a reline to improve the fit or switch to a stronger adhesive.

Dentures irritate your gums

Sore, tender gums may signal an improper fit. See your dentist promptly for adjustments to prevent damage.

Dentures pop out unexpectedly

Sudden denture dislodgment can result from warped plastic, weak facial muscles or an incorrect fit. Schedule a reline or replacement.

Upper denture rubs the roof of your mouth

The denture likely needs adjustment to prevent excessive rubbing. A dentist can polish rough spots and improve the contour.

When to See Your Dentist

See a dentist promptly if:

• Dentures break, crack or chip.
• You experience significant discomfort, bleeding or injury when removing dentures.
• Dentures don't stay in place even with adhesive.
• Gums remain sore and irritated without dentures in.
• Dentures cause gagging or you can't insert them properly.
• Dentures have loose parts or suddenly stop fitting well.

Ill-fitting dentures lead to injury and bone loss over time. Getting them adjusted or repaired right away keeps your mouth healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I remove dentures for the first time?

Removing dentures for the first time requires patience and care. Have your dentist demonstrate proper technique. Go slowly to avoid damaging the dentures. It may help to remove them over a towel or filled sink in case you drop them.

Can I sleep with my dentures in?

You should remove and clean your dentures before bedtime. Wearing them 24/7 increases the risk of fungal and bacterial overgrowth. Letting your gums rest overnight is also healthier.

Why do my gums hurt without dentures?

Your gums may feel sensitive when first adjusting to dentures. However, continual sore, tender gums without dentures signal improper fit. See your dentist to adjust them.

How do you remove stuck dentures?

If your dentures feel firmly stuck, try rinsing your mouth with warm water. Use an adhesive remover wipe to loosen the bond. Never attempt to pop out stuck dentures forcefully.</p

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.