How To Remove Chewing Gum Successfully Stuck On Your Dentures

How Do You Get Gum Off of Dentures?

Getting gum stuck on dentures can be annoying and inconvenient. Thankfully, there are several effective methods for removing gum from dentures at home. With some basic supplies and simple techniques, you can get your dentures looking clean and gum-free again.

Why Gum Gets Stuck on Dentures

There are a few reasons why gum tends to stick to dentures:

• Porosity - The acrylic material of dentures has microscopic pores that allow sugary substances like gum to penetrate deeper.
• Adhesives - Most chewing gum contains natural or synthetic rubber adhesives that are designed to stick.
• Sugar - Sugars in gum harden and crystallize as the gum dries out, cementing it onto denture surfaces.
• Saliva - Saliva helps gum cling to the grooves and textures of dentures.

These factors make gum prone to sticking stubbornly to dentures even after you've finished chewing it. But you can break down that stickiness with various removal methods.

Preventing Gum From Sticking to Dentures

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to gum and dentures. Here are some tips to avoid getting gum stuck in the first place:

• Avoid gum - It may be obvious, but not chewing gum at all prevents the problem.
• Use sugar-free gum - If you do chew gum, choose sugar-free varieties.
• Chew carefully - Chew gum only on your natural teeth, not your dentures.
• Limit time in mouth - Only chew gum for 5-10 minutes to limit stickiness.
• Clean after chewing - Promptly remove dentures and clean after chewing gum.
• Rinse mouth - Swish water around your mouth to help dislodge gum after removing dentures.
• Brush natural teeth - Brush gum residue off remaining teeth.

Being proactive with these tips will keep gum from adhering to your dentures as extensively in the first place. But if gum does manage to stick, you have several options for removal.

Home Remedies for Removing Gum From Dentures

Here are some of the most effective home methods for getting gum unstuck from dentures:

1. Ice Cubes

Rubbing ice on gum stuck on dentures can help harden and chip it away. Try these ice cube techniques:

• Hold dentures under cold running water then rub an ice cube over the gum vigorously until it chips off.
• Alternatively, hold the gummed area of the dentures against an ice pack for 5-10 minutes before scraping off.
• Wrap several ice cubes in a paper towel or cloth and firmly rub it over the gum on the dentures.

The cold temperature helps harden the gum while the friction from the ice helps loosen the adhesion and brush off particles. Repeat as needed until the gum is removed.

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda is mildly abrasive so it can scrub off sticky gum from dentures without damaging the acrylic. Mix a paste of baking soda and water then scrub it over the gum with an old toothbrush. Let it sit briefly to dissolve the gum then rinse clean with water. Baking soda's alkaline properties help break down the sugars in the gum.

3. Vinegar

Plain white vinegar is another kitchen cupboard staple that can remove gum from dentures. Soak dentures in a bowl of undiluted vinegar for 5-10 minutes to loosen the gum. Then gently rub the gum spots with a soft toothbrush or cloth soaked in vinegar to remove remaining residue. Vinegar helps dissolve sugars in the gum.

4. Denture Cleanser Solution

Most denture cleansing solutions contain chemical or enzymatic cleaners that are formulated to break down gum, tartar and stains from dentures. Soak dentures overnight in a denture cleaning solution and it will effectively dissolve stuck-on gum. Polident and Efferdent are common brand options.

5. Hydrogen Peroxide

The bubbling reaction of hydrogen peroxide can help lift gum off dentures. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water then submerge dentures and let soak for 5-10 minutes. Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the fizzing solution over any remaining gum residue. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.

6. Anti-Bacterial Hand Soap

The detergent action of anti-bacterial hand soap can break up gum adhesions. Work a small amount of soap into the gummed area of the dentures using fingers or an old toothbrush. Let it sit briefly then rinse under warm running water while scrubbing to dislodge the gum.

7. Alcohol

High-proof alcohol like vodka or rubbing alcohol can dissolve sugar and lift off sticky gum. Apply some alcohol directly onto gummed spots using a cotton swab or pad. Let it soak in briefly then scrub with a soft bristle brush and rinse clean.

8. Cooking Oil

Natural oils like olive or coconut oil can smother gum to make it less tacky and easier to remove dentures. Coat gummed areas with oil and let it soak in for 10 minutes. Then use a soft cloth to gently wipe away gum residue.

9. Mouthwash

Some mouthwashes contain alcohol and other antimicrobial ingredients that help break down gum. Soak dentures in mouthwash for 5-10 minutes then scrub with a soft bristle brush and rinse thoroughly with water.

When to Avoid DIY Gum Removal

In some cases, it's best to avoid aggressive gum removal efforts at home and see your dentist instead. These include:

• Gum stuck under clasps or wires - Don't try to scrape gum from under metal hardware that could become dislodged or damaged.
• Signs of damage - If denture material appears cracked, chipped or warped, stop efforts to prevent further damage.
• Pain or injury - If you experience gum or mouth pain, injury, or bleeding.
• Unsuccessful removal - If gum remains firmly stuck after multiple removal attempts.

Being too forceful with tools could risk denture fractures or lesions in your mouth. Seek professional help removing stubborn gum residue.

Tips for Avoiding Future Gum Sticking

Once you've managed to get gum unstuck from your dentures, follow these care tips to avoid repeats:

• Rinse dentures after eating - Prevent residue buildup by rinsing after meals.
• Brush daily - Gently brush with a soft denture brush and non-abrasive paste.
• Soak in cleaner - Regularly soak and clean with a denture cleansing solution.
• Schedule cleanings - Get professional denture cleanings every 6 months.
• Handle carefully - Be cautious inserting and removing to avoid warping that can trap food.
• Watch food choices - Avoid very sticky, sugary foods that cling.
• Keep hydrated - Stay well hydrated to help neutralize mouth acids that weaken gum adhesion.

Proper denture care and smart food choices will help prevent future gum irritation and keep dentures functioning their best.

The Bottom Line

Chewing gum can certainly lead to an aggravating situation where it becomes firmly stuck to dentures. But with the right techniques, from ice cubes and baking soda scrubs to long soaks in cleaning solutions, you can break down that stubborn adhesion. A little prevention goes a long way too. Avoid or limit gum chewing, promptly remove and rinse dentures after meals, and maintain a regular cleaning routine. With some diligence and safe removal methods, you can keep gum from clinging to your dentures and maintain your smile.

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.