Can Unclean Dentures Become A Potential Gateway To Pneumonia? Know From Oral Health Expert

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Dentures may replace teeth, but they can't replace good oral hygiene. While most people are aware of how important it is to brush and floss their natural teeth, many frequently overlook the importance of clean dentures. However, a recent groundbreaking study has revealed a shocking revelation: unclean dentures can lead to pneumonia.

Findings from the study suggest a possible connection between neglected dentures and lung infections, and they are now urging people to pay closer attention to the cleanliness and upkeep of their dentures. Today we shall walk you through the real link between dirty dentures and the occurrence of pneumonia, how to clean dentures effectively with denture-cleaning tablets, and more.

Unclean Dentures and Lung Infections

Pneumonia prevalence in India was highest in children (6.8%), followed by the elderly (3.75%), and was more pronounced in non-metropolitan cities. With an estimated 3.3 million cases of pneumonia in India by 2021, this lung infection causes significant deaths.

Dentures are the easiest and most affordable option for the replacement of missing teeth, and hence they are popular in India. With prosthodontists, general dentists, and even quacks manufacturing dentures, they are a household name, but few know the best practices for how to clean dentures and store them correctly.

A study in the United States published in 2023, stated that patients who wore removable dentures had a six-fold higher risk of developing pneumonia compared to those without a history of denture use.

This study stands out for two main reasons:

• It assesses the association between denture-wearing and pneumonia among independent-living older adults
• It follows a relatively large geriatric population for eight years.
• The research proposes several pathways that may link denture wear to the incidence of pneumonia:
• The mouth is always warm and moist, making it a haven for bacterial growth. Like dirty teeth with plaque and tartar, unclean dentures can store harmful germs and bacteria, including those resistant to antibiotics.

The material used in removable dentures (polymer resin) further encourages the buildup of plaque and a mixture of different bacteria and yeast. Denture wearers often have irritated gums, which leads to inflammation and infection, boosting the growth of these bacterial colonies, including specific types that thrive without oxygen, on the denture base. Swallowing or breathing in these microorganisms can raise the chances of getting respiratory infections and pneumonia.

Not taking care of dentures properly can lead to infections.
If dentures are not stored in clean places when not being used, they can get contaminated by harmful microorganisms. Moreover, older adults who wear dentures and are in hospitals or care facilities may have a higher risk of getting infections if healthcare workers don't handle their dentures with proper hygiene.

Overall, this study emphasizes the potential link between denture wear and an increased risk of pneumonia, underlining the significance of adequate denture hygiene and care to reduce the related health concerns.

How to Clean Dentures?

Remember, take care of your dentures, and they'll take care of you! Here are a few effective tips and tricks for how to maintain clean dentures:

Remove and rinse
Begin by removing your dentures from your mouth. Rinse them using running water to wash away any bits of food or debris on your dentures. Handle them carefully: Be cautious not to drop or mishandle your dentures since they can be fragile and might break.

Brushing
To clean your dentures, use a soft-bristle toothbrush made for dentures. Don't use a regular toothbrush because it can be too rough. Brush the denture base, teeth, and any attachments gently. Be sure to clean areas where plaque and stains build up, like around the gum line and between the teeth.

Denture cleaner
To clean your dentures better, try using denture-cleaning tablets. Just follow the instructions from the manufacturer on how long to soak them. These cleaners can remove tough stains, kill bacteria, and get rid of bad smells. But remember not to use bleach or harsh household cleaners because they can harm your dentures.

Soaking
To keep your dentures in good shape, it's important to soak them overnight. This helps to keep them moist and prevents them from bending out of shape. You can use a denture-soaking solution or just put them in a glass of water. If you choose a soaking solution, be sure to read and follow the instructions properly, as some solutions need to be diluted.

Brush your gums, tongue, and palate
Brush your gums, tongue, and palate gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush or a gauze pad while your dentures are out to get rid of any plaque or debris. This procedure promotes blood circulation in the oral tissues and aids in maintaining good oral hygiene.

Rinse again
Rinse your dentures well under running water to get rid of any remaining denture cleaner or cleaning solution before re-inserting them. This step makes sure that no dangerous chemicals, which might irritate your mouth, are left on your dentures.

Handle with care
To avoid accidental dropping or damage, always handle your dentures carefully. In case they escape your hands, use a soft towel or a bowl of water as a cushion.

Regular check-ups
To make sure your dentures are in good shape and fit correctly, make regular appointments with your dentist. Your dentist can also clean your dentures professionally and perform any necessary adjustments.

Conclusion

Overall, The research study emphasizes the potential link between denture wear and an increased risk of pneumonia, underlining the significance of clean dentures in reducing related health concerns. The link between dentures and lung infections is real. If you or a loved one in your family is a denture wearer, then follow our tips on how to clean dentures and smile healthily for life.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.