Side effects of immersion-type cleansers on the metal components of dentures

Three metals were immersed in eight denture cleansing solutions for a period of 240 hours to determine the relative side effects of these cleansers upon various metal components of complete and removable partial dentures. Conclusions drawn from this study are: 1. Commercial bleaches and unbuffered hypochlorite solutions should not be used on dentures with metal components. 2. Routine use of buffered hypochlorite solutions may cause surface damage to aluminum-base material. 3. Stainless steel (orthodontic wire) will tarnish after continued exposure to buffered and unbuffered hypochlorite solutions. 4. Further research is necessary to delineate the effects of existing denture cleansers and to improve on their effectiveness and safety.