Diana-Mihaela Dumitriu, Andra-Nicoleta Bejan, Forna Norina
ABSTRACT
Maintaining adequate hygiene of removable dental prostheses is essential for preventing local conditions such as denture stomatitis, as well as systemic complications associated with edentulous patients. The objective of this review is to synthesize and evaluate data from the literature regarding the effectiveness of the denture cleaning methods (mechanical, chemical and combined approaches), as well as their impact on acrylic materials and on maintaining oral health. A literature review was conducted based on articles published between 2021 and 2025, selected from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Embase. Inclusion criteria focused on clinical and in vitro studies that evaluated cleaning protocols, microbial biofilm reduction (especially Candida albicans) and patient compliance. Studies were included if they were peer-reviewed original articles, systematic reviews, meta-analyses or clinical studies involving removable dental prosthesis wearers. Eligible studies investigated denture hygiene practices, cleaning methods, biofilm formation, material properties or oral health-related outcomes. The analysis of the studies shows that although mechanical cleaning (brushing) is the most commonly used method by patients, it is often insufficient for complete removal of biofilm and may cause wear of acrylic materials when abrasive toothpaste is used. Most reviewed articles indicate that a combined approach—mechanical cleaning followed by immersion in chemical solutions (low-concentration sodium hypochlorite, peroxides or chlorhexidine)—provides the most effective antimicrobial control. However, combined mechanical–chemical protocols represent the current gold standard. Continuous patient education by dental professionals remains a critical factor in preventing pathologies associated with removable denture wear.
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