Denture Hygiene Basics

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What should be done if visible calculus deposits are found on the denture?

Reinforce current denture hygiene.

No intervention is needed.

Provide a denture hygiene kit only.

Refer to a general dental practitioner for cleaning. (correct)

What do you provide for a score of 3 on the Denture Cleansing Index?

No intervention is required.

Denture hygiene reinforcement, patient information leaflet, and denture hygiene kit. (correct)

Patient information leaflet only.

Denture hygiene reinforcement and denture kit only.

Which cleaning method may contain sodium hypochlorite?

Mechanical cleaning.

Denture gel.

Denture toothpaste.

Chemical cleaning. (correct)

What is the preferred method for controlling plaque biofilm on dentures?

Combination of both mechanical and chemical cleaning. Signup and view all the answers

What additional action is suggested for patients with a denture hygiene score of 4?

Consider denture reline or remake. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of denture completely replaces all missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw?

Complete/full denture Signup and view all the answers

Which method is part of manual denture cleaning?

Using a denture brush or soft toothbrush. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common consequence of poor denture hygiene?

Denture stomatitis Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true about the use of denture cleansers?

Denture cleansers must be formulated specifically for dentures. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in assessing denture cleanliness using the Denture Cleanliness Index (DCI)?

Obtain verbal consent Signup and view all the answers

When should meticulous oral hygiene coaching be provided?

At appropriate recall intervals. Signup and view all the answers

Which score on the Denture Cleanliness Index indicates a clean denture with no visible plaque?

Score 0 Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Denture Cleansing Index?

To assess denture hygiene during visits. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of applying plaque disclosing solution during denture cleaning assessment?

To visualize plaque on the denture Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of cleaning dentures over a filled sink or bowl?

It minimizes the risk of damage if dentures slip. Signup and view all the answers

When recording the Denture Cleanliness Index for patients with both upper and lower dentures, what should be done?

Record a DCI score for each denture and use the worst score Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a type of denture mentioned?

Fixed implant denture Signup and view all the answers

During the initial assessment of denture cleanliness, why is it important to remain non-judgemental?

To maintain patient trust and comfort Signup and view all the answers

What method is primarily recommended for cleaning dentures as part of hygiene practices?

Washing under cold water and gentle cleaning Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Denture Hygiene

Students should be able to describe different types of dentures and obturators.
Students should be able to recognize the importance of denture hygiene.
Students should be able to discuss assessing denture cleanliness and the Denture Cleanliness Index (DCI).
Students should be able to identify methods of cleaning dentures.

Types of Dentures and Obturators

Complete/full denture: A denture that replaces all teeth in the mouth. There are different types, including those that are completely acrylic (pink), or a combination of acrylic and metal.
Obturator: A custom-made appliance that covers an oral defect, such as a missing section of bone or gums. Useful to fill cavities or protect wounds.
Partial denture: A removable partial replacement for missing teeth. Can incorporate metal clasps or frameworks to hold pieces firmly in place. Consist of plastic teeth and a metal frame.

Importance of Denture Hygiene

Denture stomatitis: Condition caused by poor denture hygiene, characterized by oral inflammation. A significant health concern with potential to lead to oral ulcers and infections.
Importance of hygiene to prevent problems associated with poor cleanliness.

Assessing Denture Cleanliness

Using the Denture Cleanliness Index (DCI):
Explain to patient: that the process will be assessed to improve cleaning
Verbal/non-judgemental consent: obtain verbal consent and remain non-judgmental, reassuring
Fill the sink with water: gently wash dentures under cold running water
Remove loose debris: wash dentures in sink to remove loose bits
Apply Plaque Disclosing Solution: apply plaque solution, as directed, to affected areas
Rinse off: rinse the dentures and ensure the solution is rinsed well
Inspect for plaque: examine dentures for evidence of plaque
Assign DCI score: assess according to severity of problem

The Denture Cleanliness Index (DCI)

Score 0: Clean denture; no visible plaque or staining.
Score 1: Denture is visibly clean. Little staining (<25% of the denture surface).
Score 2: Visible plaque and/or debris Moderately stained (25-50% of denture surface).
Score 3: Visible plaque and/or debris. Severely stained (>50% of denture surface)
Score 4: Visible calculus on any surface; or structural defects potentially leading to plaque retention

Denture Hygiene Instructions Based on Score

Score 0: No intervention; maintain current methods.
Score 1: Reinforce current methods, encourage hygiene
Score 2: Reinforce methods, provide information leaflet.
Score 3: Reinforce methods, additional advice leaflet, hygiene kit
Score 4: Reinforce methods, provider advice leaflet, hygiene kit, further intervention by a professional clinician; potential reline or remake, consult professional

Methods of Cleaning Dentures

Manual cleaning:
Use lukewarm water, soft toothbrush
Denture cleaning adjuncts/formulas
Clinician demonstrations, followed by patient practice.
Chemical cleaning: Use of solutions to clean dentures. Different types with different compositions exist, such as bleach-based, mineral acid-based and enzyme-based solutions.

Compatibility of Denture Cleaning Methods with Different Materials

Various methods have different degrees of compatibility with specific denture materials. The table details which cleaning method is appropriate for each denture type.

Maintaining Optimal Oral Health for Denture Wearers

Meticulous oral and denture hygiene coaching is essential for optimal oral health for denture wearers.
Including Denture Cleansing Index (DCI) in routine check-ups allows assessing denture hygiene.
Ensure patient’s ability to thoroughly clean dentures with mechanical (brush) and/or chemical cleaning.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz focuses on the essentials of denture hygiene, including the types of dentures and obturators, their importance, and methods for maintaining cleanliness. Students will learn to evaluate denture cleanliness through the Denture Cleanliness Index (DCI) and understand best practices for caring for dentures.