Sometimes I’ll use a drop of dish soap, but I rinse like my life depends on it.
I get the urge to improvise, but I’m honestly a little wary about dish soap—even if you rinse like crazy, there’s always that chance of some residue sticking around. Maybe I’m just paranoid, but the idea of accidentally tasting soap all day freaks me out. What I’ve done in a pinch is just stick with plain water and gentle brushing, even if it feels less “clean.”
As for ultrasonic cleaners, I was skeptical too, but ended up finding a used one for cheap and it’s actually been pretty handy. Still, nothing really beats a good soak with the proper tablets when you can get them.
One trick a hygienist shared with me: if you’re desperate and have access to vinegar (like at a hotel breakfast bar), a quick diluted soak can help cut down on buildup. Just rinse super well after. Not something I’d do all the time, but it’s saved me once or twice.
Toothpaste is definitely off my list though... learned that the hard way.
I totally get what you mean about the dish soap thing—just the idea of even a tiny bit of residue hanging around makes me cringe. I tried that once in a moment of desperation (hotel bathroom, no cleaner, running late), and even after rinsing forever I was convinced I could taste it for the rest of the day. Not sure if it was real or just in my head, but it bugged me enough that I haven’t done it since.
Plain water and brushing is usually my fallback too. It does feel a little weird, like maybe it’s not doing enough, but I figure it’s better than risking soap or some random cleaning product. I’m kind of a stickler for reading labels, so putting anything on my dentures that isn’t meant for mouths just stresses me out.
Funny enough, I actually found a mini ultrasonic cleaner at a thrift store last year for ten bucks. Wasn’t expecting much, but it’s turned into one of those “how did I live without this?” things for travel. It doesn’t replace the tablets completely, but between that and a soft toothbrush, I don’t feel too gross if I have to go a few days without proper cleaner.
Vinegar is an interesting tip—never thought to raid the hotel breakfast bar for cleaning supplies, but hey, when you’re desperate... I’ve always worried about it making my dentures smell funky, though. Did you notice any lingering taste or odor after rinsing? I’d be willing to try it if it doesn’t leave me with salad dressing breath all day.
And yeah, toothpaste is a hard no from me too. Scratched up a set years ago before someone clued me in—it was like sandpaper on plastic. Live and learn.
Anyway, I guess the moral of the story is: improvise when you have to, but maybe avoid anything you wouldn’t want in your mouth long-term. And if you ever find yourself at a hotel with nothing else, don’t underestimate the power of plain old water and patience.
