Wearing dentures can significantly improve your quality of life, restoring your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. But if your dentures have developed an unpleasant odor, it can be both embarrassing and frustrating. Bad-smelling dentures are a common issue, and thankfully, one that’s usually preventable and treatable. Here’s a closer look at why dentures can start to smell and, more importantly, what you can do to fix it.

What Causes Denture Odor?

Just like natural teeth, dentures can accumulate food particles, bacteria, and plaque. But unlike your teeth, dentures are made from materials that can absorb odors if not cleaned properly. Here are the most common causes of smelly dentures:

• Poor cleaning habits: Dentures need to be cleaned daily. Skipping this step can lead to bacteria and food residue building up, which results in odor.
• Bacterial or fungal growth: The warm, moist environment of the mouth is ideal for bacteria and even fungi like Candida (which can cause denture stomatitis). If not disinfected properly, dentures can harbor these microbes.
• Wearing dentures overnight: Wearing your dentures 24/7 doesn’t give your mouth a chance to rest and your dentures time to air out. This increases the risk of bacterial buildup and odor.
• Dry mouth (xerostomia): Saliva helps wash away food and bacteria. If you suffer from dry mouth—common in older adults or those on certain medications—you’re more likely to experience denture odor.
• Denture fit issues: Loose or ill-fitting dentures can trap food underneath them, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and resulting in persistent odor

How to Eliminate Denture Odor

The good news is that smelly dentures can usually be managed with a few changes in your routine:

• Clean them thoroughly every day: Use a denture brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser (never regular toothpaste) to clean all surfaces. Rinse thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining debris.
• Soak them overnight: Letting your dentures soak in a denture-cleaning solution overnight helps disinfect and remove lingering odors. This also keeps them moist, which helps maintain their shape.
• Give your mouth a break: Always remove your dentures at night. This gives your gums a chance to rest and reduces the risk of infection and odor.
• Clean your mouth, too: Even if you wear full dentures, you should still brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth daily to eliminate bacteria that contribute to odor.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and ask your dentist about saliva substitutes if you suffer from dry mouth.
• See your dentist regularly: Regular checkups ensure your dentures still fit well and your mouth is healthy. Your dentist can also professionally clean your dentures if needed.

If your dentures smell, it’s not something you have to live with. A proper hygiene routine, nightly soaking, and regular dental visits can go a long way in keeping both your mouth and your dentures fresh. When in doubt, talk to your dentist – they can pinpoint the cause and help you enjoy a confident, odor-free smile.

About the Practice

Are you interested in replacing your look and functionality with dentures? Or are you having issues with your current prosthesis? Our team of experts at Moreno & Young Dental can see to all your denture needs. We offer partial and full dentures, implant dentures, and hybrids so that you have a selection to fit your unique, specific needs. Ready to get started? Schedule your appointment today online or call us at (360) 676-0642.