How to Whiten Dentures: Expert Practical Tips, Advice, and What to Avoid

Dentures can do wonders for your confidence and smile, so it's important you keep them looking good. You may be wondering how to whiten dentures when they've lost their pearly white shine and bring back your dazzling smile.

Maintaining dentures is more than just keeping them bright and white — hygiene maintenance is much more so.

But we understand that white teeth are a standard of beauty these days, so this article will discuss whether or not you can whiten dentures as well as answer the following questions and more:

• How do you whiten dentures fast?
• What do professionals recommend?
• What home remedies are there for whitening dentures?
• Can you use vinegar to whiten dentures?
• What products should you avoid?

Keep reading to learn expert and practical advice, including both home remedies and professional care, and tips on what to avoid when whitening dentures.

Can you whiten dentures?

Yes, but it's important to note that whitening false teeth with stains is not the same as whitening dentures without stains. This is because a denture's natural shade cannot be changed.

Basically, if you've been wondering how to make your new dentures whiter after they've been constructed, unfortunately, there is no way to brighten the base colour of constructed dentures (or bonding, for that matter).

Stained dentures are a different story. Denture whitening eliminates stains that have accumulated over time and restores the original false tooth colour. However, if you leave the surface stains for a long period of time it will be harder to get rid of them long-term.

Dentures should be cleaned regularly to not only prevent gum disease and bacterial infections but also stop them from starting to yellow or stain. That's because dentures are made from acrylic and can become stained by factors like poor hygiene and irregular cleaning.

How to whiten dentures at home?

If your dentures stain over time, you can try several home remedies featuring everyday household ingredients. Try out these tips that will help you remove stains and whiten dentures.

Rinsing

Consuming dark-coloured foods and beverages can easily stain your dentures, including:

• Coffee or tea
• Red wine
• Berries

Removing and rinsing your dentures after eating or drinking these foods is the best way to get ahead of the game and keep dentures white. Preventive maintenance is critical for keeping your dentures clean so that they last a long time.

Denture solution

Denture cleaning solutions are available at your neighbourhood pharmacy or the local dental clinic. You can also buy them online, but check with your dentist first to make sure you are buying the right cleaning solution for your dentures.

To use a denture solution, read the instructions first. Most recommend soaking your dentures in the solution for a set period of time before brushing them.

Always rinse your dentures with water after cleaning them before you put them back in your mouth.

Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is known for its bleaching effects and is a common ingredient in many teeth whitening products. It can effectively remove the stains that build up on the denture’s surface.

You can whiten dentures with hydrogen peroxide by taking them out, coating the dentures with hydrogen peroxide, and gently brushing them with a soft toothbrush. Next, rinse the dentures thoroughly to remove any product.

Some studies suggest that hydrogen peroxide may have antimicrobial properties, but more research is needed.

White vinegar

Cleaning dentures with white vinegar is a great option because it is a natural sanitiser that will destroy any bacteria. Soak them overnight in vinegar. The next morning, use a toothbrush and brush the dentures — most surface stains will lift easily.

Salt

Dentures may be easily cleaned by dipping a wet toothbrush in salt and scrubbing the surfaces. Or, to disinfect and sanitise dentures, submerge them in a saltwater solution overnight.

Lemon

Lemon juice is naturally acidic and contains citric acid, which is a known bleaching agent. Although it's not good for natural teeth, soaking dentures in a solution of lemon juice and water for 30 minutes can lift some of those surface stains. Rinse with cool water after soaking.

Baking soda

Both dentures and natural teeth can benefit from using baking soda. It can whiten teeth and dentures. It is also easily available in your local grocery shop or supermarket, and most of us probably have some in the kitchen right now.

Baking soda is also great for eliminating odours. Use a toothbrush and a solution of baking soda and water to whiten the dentures.

How to whiten dentures fast?

The following video explains the process for whitening stained and yellowed dentures:

What to avoid when whitening dentures

Certain products may prove hazardous to your health and even damage your dentures. You should never use the following things to whiten dentures or clean your dentures.

Bleach

Although household bleach is great for cleaning clothes and surfaces, it should never be used on dentures.

Using bleach to whiten teeth is not only harmful if swallowed, but it will also destroy your dentures if you use it on them. The bleach will leave a stain on the pink part of your dentures that cannot be removed.

Boiling water

Never put your dentures in hot water to clean them. Cleaning tabs, brushing, or even saltwater are all better options. Keep your dentures in cold or room-temperature water because boiling water can warp your dentures and cause them to fit poorly.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to whiten false teeth safely, try out the tips mentioned above to remove surface stains from dentures and avoid harmful products. Keeping your dentures white will ensure that your self-confidence remains high and your smile bright.

If nothing you try appears to give you white dentures, consult your dentist or a dental lab. They may be able to suggest additional options that are more suitable for your particular situation.

If you're unsure about a fake teeth whitening method you've heard about, consult an expert first.

FAQs

Can you whiten fake teeth with household bleach?

You should never use household bleach to clean your dentures because it can be harmful to your health and your dentures. You can, however, use household products like baking soda or salt.

How to whiten dentures fast?

Although you can always give your dentures a quick rinse and scrub, most solutions require an overnight soak. You want your dentures to last, so take the time to care for them.