Sniffing Out the Problem: Common Causes of Denture Odors

Have you noticed an unpleasant smell emanating from your dentures lately? Don’t worry; it happens! Many denture wearers experience issues with bad breath or strange smells at some point. Understanding the causes can help you tackle the problem and get rid of denture odors for good! Read on to explore some common reasons why dentures may start to smell and learn what you can do!

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

Just like natural teeth, dentures require regular cleaning to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria. If not cleaned properly, these icky substances can accumulate on your dentures, leading to odor-causing bacteria growth.

2. Dry Mouth

Saliva helps cleanse your mouth and neutralize acids produced by bacteria. However, denture wearers may often get dry mouth, especially if they have a habit of wearing their dentures overnight. This reduced saliva flow can create an environment where bacteria can freely spread and multiply, leading to bad breath.

3. Smoking and Tobacco

Tobacco use is well-known to contribute to bad breath and denture stains. If you chew tobacco or smoke, quitting or reducing your frequency of use can improve the smell of your dentures. In addition, it will drastically improve your overall oral health!

4. Oral Infections

In some cases, an underlying oral infection may be the cause of denture odors. As bacteria spreads into your cheeks, tongue, and gums it can cause various infections like gum disease. This will cause an unpleasant taste in your mouth and halitosis. If you suspect an infection, it’s important to see your dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How to Stop Denture Odors

Now that you’ve identified some common culprits behind smelly dentures, it’s time to stop them! Regular cleaning and proper oral hygiene practices are key to combating denture odor. Here are some tips to keep your dentures fresh and odor-free:

• Brush your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner like mild, colorless dish soap.
• Soak your prosthetics overnight in a denture cleaning solution to remove stubborn stains and bacteria. Don’t wear them while you sleep.
• Rinse your dentures thoroughly after meals before putting them back in to remove bacteria and food particles.
• Visit your dentist regularly for denture adjustments and oral exams to ensure a proper fit and great oral health.

By understanding the causes of denture odor and implementing these preventive measures, you can enjoy a fresh and confident smile every day. If you need more guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist. They can give you more personalized advice and help you bust your denture odors for good!

About the Author

Dr. Eric Barajas has been servicing smiles for over 30 years, and he still enjoys every minute of it! He earned his dental doctorate from the UCLA School of Dentistry and has never stopped learning since. Through multiple professional organizations and continuing education opportunities, he deploys the latest dental technology and techniques to better serve his patients. Call (619) 482-7367 to schedule a denture consultation at Village Walk Dental or visit the website to learn more.