Denture Care

1Step-by-Step Procedure

1. 1

   Gather equipment: denture cup with lid, denture brush or soft toothbrush, denture cleaner or mild soap, water, emesis basin, gloves, towel.

2. 2

   Wash hands and put on gloves.

3. 3

   Identify the resident and explain the procedure.

4. 4

   Place a folded towel or small basin of water in the sink to cushion the dentures in case of dropping.

5. 5

   Ask the resident to remove their dentures, or assist them — remove the lower denture first, then the upper.

6. 6

   Place dentures in the denture cup or emesis basin.

7. 7

   Take dentures to the sink.

8. 8

   Hold dentures firmly and brush all surfaces with the denture brush and denture cleaner or mild soap, including the inner surfaces, ridges, and clasps.

9. 9

   Rinse dentures thoroughly under cool or lukewarm water — never use hot water, as it can warp the dentures.

10. 10

    Fill the denture cup with cool water (or denture-soaking solution as directed) and place clean dentures inside.

11. 11

    Return to the resident and assist them to rinse their mouth with water or mouthwash before reinserting.

12. 12

    Assist the resident to reinsert dentures: upper denture first, then lower.

13. 13

    Ensure dentures are seated comfortably.

14. 14

    Remove and discard towel; clean equipment.

15. 15

    Remove gloves and wash hands.

16. 16

    Ensure call light is within reach; lower bed.

17. 17

    Document care and any oral observations.

What the Examiner Is Watching For

• ✓

  Gloves are worn throughout.

• ✓

  Cushion (towel/water-filled basin) is placed to catch dropped dentures.

• ✓

  All denture surfaces are brushed thoroughly.

• ✓

  Cool or lukewarm water is used — never hot.

• ✓

  Dentures are stored in water or soaking solution when not reinserted.

Common Mistakes That Cause Failure

• ⚠

  Using hot water — this warps dentures and is a critical error.

• ⚠

  Not padding the sink to protect dentures from breakage if dropped.

• ⚠

  Skipping brushing of inner surfaces and clasps.

• ⚠

  Not rinsing the resident's mouth before reinserting the dentures.

• ⚠

  Storing dentures dry rather than in water or solution.

Tips for Exam Day

• →

  Cool water only — hot water warps dentures. Know this cold.

• →

  Pad the sink with a towel before you begin.

• →

  Brush all surfaces; denture cleaner or mild soap, not regular toothpaste.

• →

  Rinse the resident's mouth before reinserting dentures.

Recommended Study Books

Top-rated CNA prep books to pass both the written and skills tests.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.