Denture Care

A new study shows that there may be more than just teeth on your dentures.  They may be harboring bad bacteria like MRSA, or drug-resistant staphylococcus aureus bacteria.  The normal ways of cleaning a denture, like soaking over night in OTC cleaner, are not effective against these types of bacteria.  Therefore the bacteria is inhaled from the denture into the lungs causing an infection that can be very hard to treat. 
There are 2 newly recommended cleaning methods that deal with the bad bacteria.  Microwaving your dentures for 3 minutes or soaking them in chlorhexidine gluconate for 10 minutes will kill bad bacteria for a week.  We have chlorhexadine gluconate, Peridex, available in the office.  It is a prescription strength antibacterial rinse we use to help treat unhealthy gums.  Both methods are equally effective. 
So, if you have denture and you are concerned with keeping them clean, go see your dentist today.  Don't forget, denture patients need regular dental check ups too! 

Information in this article from: msnbc.com