Basic Nursing SkillsQuestion 88 of 200

Correct technique for cleaning dentures includes:

a.Brushing the dentures dry with a regular toothbrush and abrasive toothpaste, then returning them to the mouth
b.Lining the sink with a towel or filling with water, brushing dentures with denture-specific brush and cleaner over the cushioned sink, rinsing in cool/lukewarm water, storing in labeled container with water/solution when out
c.Cleaning the dentures in very hot water with abrasive toothpaste to disinfect the acrylic, then rinsing
d.Storing the dentures dry in a labeled paper cup at the bedside when they are out of the mouth

Explanation

Dentures are fragile and expensive to replace. Line the sink with a towel or partially fill with water to cushion a possible drop; use a denture brush and denture cleaner (not abrasive toothpaste, which scratches the acrylic), rinse in cool or lukewarm water (hot water warps the plate), and store in a labeled container filled with water or cleaning solution when out of the mouth, because drying also causes warping. Hot water (c), dry brushing (a), and dry storage (d) damage dentures and risk loss.

Law Reference: Fundamentals; denture care

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