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Dentures: poor cleaning increases the risk of pneumonia
Find out why poorly cleaned dentures increase the risk of pneumonia and how the Aquolab ozone dental jet improves oral hygiene.
hygiene-precision.com
2/2/20269 min read
Poorly Cleaned Dental Prostheses Increase the Risk of Lung Infections
Dental prostheses including full dentures, partial dentures, and removable bridges restore comfort, aesthetics, and chewing function. However, their maintenance is often neglected. Recent studies show that inadequate denture hygiene can significantly increase the risk of pneumonia, particularly in older adults.
Indeed, a poorly cleaned dental prosthesis can become a true microbial reservoir. This article explores the underlying mechanisms, the infection risks involved, and presents a complete oral hygiene routine incorporating Aquolab innovations: the ozone dental irrigator, Ozonic toothpaste, and the sonic toothbrush.
Why Poorly Cleaned Dental Prostheses Can Promote Pneumonia
Biofilm: a true breeding ground for bacteria
Dental prostheses rapidly accumulate a polymicrobial biofilm composed of bacteria and fungi. These microorganisms colonize resin surfaces and form a layer that is resistant to conventional rinsing.
Among them are pathogenic bacteria responsible for respiratory infections, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Haemophilus influenzae. When a prosthesis is not properly cleaned, these microorganisms multiply and increase the infectious load in the oral cavity.
Bacterial aspiration during sleep
In denture wearers, silent aspiration of saliva or contaminated secretions can lead to aspiration pneumonia.
A Japanese study demonstrated that sleeping with dentures doubles the risk of pneumonia. The reason: bacteria present on the prosthesis migrate into the respiratory tract during sleep, especially in older adults whose cough reflex is weakened.
Other aggravating factors
Prolonged nighttime denture wear
Insufficient oral hygiene
Denture-related stomatitis (Candida albicans)
Weakened immune system
Neurological disorders or swallowing difficulties
All these factors increase the risk of denture-related infections and, consequently, pulmonary complications.
Scientific Evidence Confirms the Link Between Dental Prostheses and Pneumonia
Epidemiological studies
Research shows a significant correlation between poor denture hygiene and pneumonia:
Iinuma et al., 2015: Older adults who slept with their dentures had a 2.3-fold higher risk of pneumonia.
Shimizu et al., 2019: Irregular denture cleaning increased the risk of lung infection by 30%.
Sumi et al., 2002 / 2012: In nursing homes, improved oral hygiene (daily denture cleaning) reduced the incidence of nosocomial pneumonia.
These findings demonstrate that pneumonia risk is largely modifiable through the quality of oral and denture hygiene.
Risks of Complications Associated with Poorly Maintained Dentures
Inadequate denture care does not only increase pulmonary risk. It can also lead to:
Stomatitis and oral candidiasis: painful mucosal inflammation caused by Candida albicans
Mucosal irritation and lesions due to plaque and debris accumulation
Premature wear of prosthetic materials
Increased systemic risk (chronic inflammation, circulating bacteria)
A poorly maintained dental prosthesis therefore becomes a global health risk factor.
How to Clean Removable Dental Prostheses
Cleaning the prosthesis alone is not sufficient. The entire oral cavity (tongue, gums, palate) must be cleaned regularly to reduce the microbial reservoir. Below are the recommended steps for proper denture hygiene:
Essential daily routine
Remove the denture at night: avoiding nighttime wear drastically reduces the risk of microbial aspiration.
Mechanically clean the denture: gentle brushing with lukewarm water using a specific brush and neutral soap.
Soak the denture in an appropriate disinfecting solution (chlorine-free).
Brush the tongue and gums to limit bacterial proliferation.
Rinse thoroughly before reinserting the denture.
A rigorous routine helps reduce prosthetic complications and respiratory infections.
Cleaning and Maintaining Fixed or Removable Dental Prostheses with Aquolab Products
Aquolab solutions combine mechanical effectiveness with natural disinfection through ozone, a powerful natural oxidant with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
The Aquolab Ozone Dental Irrigator
The Aquolab ozone dental irrigator combines mechanical action (pulsed water jet) with a gentle oxidizing effect (ozone).
It thoroughly cleans and disinfects hard-to-reach areas: beneath dentures, interdental spaces, and the gingival margin. Suitable for all fixed and removable dental appliances.
Benefits:
Reduction of biofilm and bacterial load
Prevention of infections and inflammation
Non-abrasive action, gentle on oral tissues
Ozone, used at controlled concentrations, acts as a natural disinfectant without irritating oral tissues. It promotes tissue oxygenation and remineralization.
Aquolab Ozonic Ozone Toothpaste
Ozonic toothpaste incorporates the benefits of ozone in a gentle, protective formula based on olive oil and sage.
It eliminates odor-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, and supports a healthy balance of oral flora. It is remineralizing thanks to its natural hydroxyapatite composition. Ozone is a powerful natural disinfectant.
Benefits:
Natural antibacterial action
Non-aggressive cleaning
Reduced risk of infection around dental prostheses
The Aquolab Sonic Toothbrush
The Aquolab sonic toothbrush uses high-frequency vibrations to dislodge biofilms. Its vertical high-frequency motion creates microbubbles of toothpaste and oxygen, ideal for deep cleaning of the oral cavity.
It is particularly suitable for partial or fixed denture wearers and for older adults with limited manual dexterity.
Benefits:
Thorough yet gentle cleaning
Gingival massage that stimulates circulation
Perfect synergy with Ozonic toothpaste
Complete Oral–Prosthetic Hygiene Routine with Aquolab
Remove and rinse the denture.
Brush teeth, tongue, and gums using the Aquolab sonic toothbrush and Ozonic toothpaste.
Use the ozone dental irrigator to reach difficult areas.
Clean the denture separately, then soak it in an appropriate solution.
Remove the denture at night to limit respiratory contamination.
This combination provides optimal denture hygiene, reduces infection risk, and improves daily oral comfort.
Practical Tips to Prevent Infections
Never sleep with your dentures.
Clean both the denture and the mouth daily.
Avoid abrasive or chlorinated products.
Regularly check denture fit with your dentist.
Educate caregivers and healthcare providers on proper denture hygiene.
Integrate modern tools (sonic toothbrush, ozone irrigator, Ozonic toothpaste).
Good oral–prosthetic hygiene directly contributes to the prevention of respiratory infections.
Conclusion
Poorly cleaned dental prostheses are not inert objects: they can become active microbial reservoirs responsible for aspiration pneumonia, particularly in older adults. Fortunately, pneumonia risk is reversible through rigorous hygiene and the use of innovative tools such as those offered by Aquolab: the ozone dental irrigator, Ozonic toothpaste, and the Aquolab sonic toothbrush. By integrating these devices into a daily routine, denture wearers can significantly reduce infection risk and preserve both respiratory and oral health.
Scientific References
Iinuma T. et al. (2015). Denture wearing during sleep doubles the risk of pneumonia in the very elderly. J Dent Res, 94(3 Suppl):28S–36S.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4541085/Sumi Y. et al. (2002). Oral care may reduce pneumonia in the elderly. J Am Geriatr Soc, 50(3):430–433.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11943045/Maciel J. et al. (2024). Ill Effects and Complications Associated to Removable Dentures with Improper Use and Poor Oral Hygiene. Am J Dent.
https://www.amjdent.com/Archive/ReviewArticles/2024/Maciel%20AJD%20Dec%202024.pdfKhan S. et al. (2022). Complications Associated to Poor Oral Hygiene in Denture Wearers: A Systematic Review. ResearchGate.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362785011Okuda K. et al. (2005). Biofilm formation on denture materials and pneumonia risk. Clin Infect Dis, 40(12):1807–1810.
https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/40/12/1807/314357Sumi Y. et al. (2012). Oral biofilm and pneumonia in institutionalized elderly. J Dent Res, 91(9):831–838.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0022034512450034Shimizu K. et al. (2019). Impact of oral hygiene on respiratory infections among the elderly. Sci Rep, 9:50129.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-50129-9MDPI Journal of Clinical Medicine (2023). Association between denture hygiene and pneumonia in older adults.
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/12/19/6127BMC Oral Health (2024). Oral hygiene and pneumonia in nursing home residents.
https://bmcoralhealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12903-024-04814-5
FAQ – Dental Prosthesis Hygiene and Prevention of Pneumonia Risk
🔹 Understanding the risks associated with dental prostheses
Why can a poorly cleaned dental prosthesis cause pneumonia?
A poorly cleaned dental prosthesis promotes the growth of a bacterial biofilm containing pathogenic germs. These bacteria can be inhaled into the respiratory tract during sleep, especially in elderly or dependent individuals, leading to aspiration pneumonia.
The risk of infection increases when dentures are worn at night or cleaned irregularly.
What is the link between oral hygiene and the risk of dental prosthesis complications?
Poor oral hygiene leads to the accumulation of deposits on the prosthesis and oral mucosa, creating a favorable environment for the growth of fungi (Candida albicans) and bacteria.
This can cause denture stomatitis, bad breath, inflammation, and, in severe cases, pulmonary complications such as pneumonia.
Maintaining rigorous daily hygiene is therefore essential to reduce the risk of complications related to dental prostheses.
Can dental prostheses increase the risk of respiratory infections in older adults?
Yes. In older adults, poorly maintained dental prostheses are a recognized risk factor for respiratory infections. Reduced swallowing reflexes, bacterial accumulation on the prosthesis, and nighttime wear increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia, particularly in institutional or dependent care settings.
What is bacterial biofilm on a dental prosthesis?
Biofilm is an invisible layer composed of bacteria, fungi, and food debris that adhere to the surface of the prosthesis. If not removed daily, this biofilm becomes a reservoir of pathogenic microorganisms that can cause oral and respiratory infections.
🔹 Cleaning and maintenance of dental prostheses
How should a dental prosthesis be cleaned on a daily basis?
Here is a daily care routine for optimal denture hygiene:
Remove the prosthesis every evening before going to bed.
Gently brush it with a dedicated brush and neutral soap or a denture-specific toothpaste.
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water (never hot).
Soak it overnight in a non-chlorinated disinfecting solution.
Clean the mouth (gums, tongue, mucosa) before reinserting the prosthesis in the morning.
These simple steps prevent biofilm formation and reduce the risk of dental prosthesis infections.
How often should a removable dental prosthesis be cleaned?
A removable dental prosthesis should be cleaned at least twice a day, with thorough cleaning in the evening before nighttime removal. Insufficient maintenance promotes bacterial growth and increases the risk of denture stomatitis and respiratory infections.
Can regular toothpaste be used to clean a dental prosthesis?
Conventional toothpastes are often abrasive and can scratch the surface of the prosthesis, making it easier for bacteria to adhere. It is recommended to use a denture-specific toothpaste or a mild antibacterial solution to preserve materials and ensure proper hygiene.
Should gums be cleaned when wearing a dental prosthesis?
Yes. Cleaning the gums, tongue, and oral mucosa is essential, even in the absence of natural teeth. These areas can harbor bacteria responsible for oral and pulmonary infections. A soft or sonic toothbrush provides effective cleaning without damaging tissues.
🔹 Reducing the risk of pneumonia and complications
Can you sleep with dental prostheses?
Sleeping with dental prostheses is strongly discouraged.
A clinical study (Iinuma et al., 2015) showed that nighttime wear doubles the risk of pneumonia.
During sleep, contaminated saliva or microorganisms present on the prosthesis can be inhaled, leading to respiratory infections.
The best practice is to remove the prosthesis every night and soak it in a cleaning solution.
What are the signs of a poorly maintained dental prosthesis?
The following symptoms should raise concern:
Persistent bad breath
Unpleasant taste in the mouth
Gum irritation or redness
Burning sensation or oral pain
Visible stains or whitish deposits on the prosthesis
These signs indicate bacterial or fungal overgrowth and an increased risk of denture infection. Thorough cleaning or a dental check-up is recommended.
How can complications related to dental prostheses be prevented?
To avoid complications:
Clean the prosthesis daily.
Never wear it at night.
Use an ozone dental irrigator to eliminate bacteria from hard-to-reach areas.
Brush oral mucosa with a soft sonic toothbrush.
Visit your dentist regularly to check prosthesis fit and condition.
These best practices limit prosthetic complications and help maintain overall oral health.
How can the risk of pneumonia be reduced in dependent individuals wearing dental prostheses?
In dependent individuals, prevention relies on rigorous daily denture hygiene, systematic nighttime removal, regular disinfection, and caregiver assistance. Monitoring for signs of oral infection allows early intervention before pulmonary complications develop.
🔹 Hygiene tools and technologies
Which products should be used for daily oral hygiene when wearing dental prostheses?
Recommended products should be gentle, non-abrasive, and antibacterial.
The most innovative solutions incorporate ozone, a natural oxidant with disinfecting properties.
Aquolab devices offer an ideal combination:
Aquolab ozone water flosser, to eliminate bacteria under the prosthesis and between teeth.
Aquolab Ozonic toothpaste, for gentle, daily antibacterial hygiene.
Aquolab sonic toothbrush, for thorough yet non-aggressive cleaning.
These tools help reduce the risk of denture infections while improving oral comfort.
Why use ozone-based products for dental prosthesis hygiene?
Ozone is a powerful natural disinfectant capable of eliminating bacteria, viruses, and fungi without damaging oral tissues.
Ozone-based products significantly reduce bacterial biofilm, improve prevention of denture-related infections, and contribute to long-term oral and respiratory health.
What are the benefits of the Aquolab sonic toothbrush for denture wearers?
The Aquolab sonic toothbrush provides high-frequency vibrations that help dislodge bacterial plaque without damaging gums or prosthetic materials.
It is particularly useful for individuals with partial dentures, implants, or reduced manual dexterity.
When combined with an antibacterial toothpaste, it enhances the prevention of oral infections.
🔹 Optimal routine and best practices
What is the best hygiene routine to prevent pneumonia in denture wearers?
The best denture hygiene routine is based on three key principles:
Daily mechanical cleaning with a sonic toothbrush and appropriate ozone toothpaste.
Regular disinfection, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Nighttime rest without the prosthesis to limit bacterial aspiration.
This comprehensive approach effectively reduces the risk of pneumonia associated with poorly cleaned dental prostheses.
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