HIGIENIZAÇÃO DE PRÓTESES TOTAIS E PARCIAIS REMOVÍVEIS

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to perform a literature review about materials and methods available for the hygiene of complete and removable partial dentures, comparing the cleaning methods available, and describing their advantages and disadvantages. It is a function of the dental surgeon to guide and motivate the patient regarding hygiene of the prosthesis and tissues of the oral cavity, since the accumulation of debris on the inner surface of dental prosthesis may facilitate colonization of bacteria and fungi. This contributes to the establishment of clinical and subclinical pathologic processes, such as denture stomatitis. Among the means of disinfection are the mechanical (brushes, microwave and ultrasound), chemicals (alkali peroxides, alkali hypochlorites, acids, disinfectants, and enzymes) and association between the chemical and mechanical methods. Studies have shown that only dental brushes are not sufficient for complete removal of bacterial plaque and the use of hard brushes can wear away the surface of the resin, leaving it more porous and easier to plaque accumulation. It can be concluded that proper cleaning of the prosthesis requires physical and chemical methods, using compatible brushes for the prosthesis and chemicals according to each planning.