Food debris and bacteria continue to accumulate throughout the mouth, including on the tongue, remaining
teeth, and dentures, forming plaque, which has the potential to cause cavities, odours, sores, and
irritation.
If you wear dentures, it is important to take them out daily for appropriate cleaning (see Helpful Hints
in our downloadable fact sheet) and visit your oral health care provider, including your dental
hygienist, regularly to ensure the overall
health of your mouth.
Advice for Caregivers
If you provide denture care to others, have the appropriate supplies on hand that will make your work
much easier (see Materials in our downloadable fact sheet). In terms of approach, determine the level of
assistance the individual requires
to adequately care for their mouth and dentures and follow the procedures outlined in our fact sheet.
Note that, while brushing the individual’s teeth, gums, tongue, and roof of mouth, it may be helpful to
use a mouth prop. Once the dentures and mouth have been cleaned, look for any changes and ask them how
their mouth and dentures feel.
Remember to store the dentures as recommended by the individual’s oral health professional. Encourage
and/or arrange for the individual to visit an oral health professional, including their dental
hygienist, regularly to maintain oral and
overall health.