How to Remove Gum From Dentures

Dentures are artificial teeth that have microscopic holes in them that can collect food and bacteria. Dentures have come a long way over the years with new materials and technology that have greatly improved the natural look and feel of artificial teeth. Unfortunately, a set of dentures that can chew sticky gum without causing a problem has yet to be invented. If you’ve made the mistake of getting chewing gum on your dentures it can be removed, but it will take a good amount of patience on your part to get them clean.

Remove the dentures from your mouth, giving them a quick rinse under the sink to remove any food particles. Take off as much of the excess gum as you can by hand.

Recipe for Homemade Denture Adhesive

Learn More

Heat up a mixture of 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar and 1/2 cup water to nearly boiling; let sit for five minutes. Dip a toothbrush into the vinegar and scrub the affected area of the dentures. Use a soft cloth to remove excess gum from the toothbrush and repeat, removing as much of the gum as possible.

Apply cooking oil by hand to the surface where any gum remains, applying liberally and rubbing in a circular motion.

How to Clean Dentures That Have Soft Reline

Learn More

Use a soft cloth to loosen the remaining gum by rubbing the teeth of the dentures in a top-to-bottom motion. Continue to work the oil in by hand and remove the excess with the cloth until none of it remains. Rotate the cloth regularly to a clean area while working off the gum.

Scrub dentures with a clean toothbrush and your regular denture cleaner to completely remove the oil. Repeat. Soak dentures in a 50 percent solution of vinegar and water overnight to help inhibit bacteria growth.

Tips

Do not freeze dentures; this could lead to chipping or cracking.

Never use harsh products such as bleaches or abrasive cleansers on your dentures, this can lead to scratching and bleaching of the pink portion of the dentures.