Millions of people are enjoying complete smiles after replacing their lost teeth with lifelike dentures. While false teeth have become much more comfortable since George Washington wore an appliance made from ivory, wearing your dentures for days without end can lead to severe oral health consequences such as gum disease and jawbone erosion. Here’s why it’s crucial for patients to remove their dentures for at least eight hours every day as well as a guide to soaking your appliance when you take it out for the night.
How Does Wearing Dentures Affect My Gums?
A well-fitting set of modern full dentures should be able to securely hold its place in the mouth through suction alone, but this tight fit has the unfortunate side effect of restricting blood flow to the gum tissue. Accordingly, the gums and the dentures need at least eight hours apart every day so the soft tissues can rest and get the nutrients they need while the mouth cleans itself. Wearing dentures also creates a dark, damp, warm, sheltered place between them and the gums, resulting in an environment that is ideal for the growth of harmful oral bacteria.
What Can Happen if I Wear My Dentures Continuously?
If the gums do not have the time they need to rest and heal every day, the will become more vulnerable to infection and eventually begin to recede due to exhaustion. Oral infections can also erode the jawbones, and these changes in the shape of the mouth can cause your dentures to lose their fit sooner. A poorly fitting pair of dentures can slide around in the mouth, resulting in embarrassing moments during meals or conversations or even injuring the gums and remaining natural teeth, making them more vulnerable to infection and loss.
A denture that loses its fit will also need to be replaced sooner, and the cost of multiple replacements can significantly add up over time. Proper denture care is great for your oral health and your budget.
When Should I Remove My Dentures?
Since the mouth needs about eight hours away from the dentures every day, most patients choose to remove their appliances before they go to bed. Before removing your dentures, place folded towels across your bathroom countertop and fill the sink with lukewarm water to create a cushion in case you drop them.
Start by rinsing your dentures after you remove them to clear away larger bits of debris. Then, use a soft-bristled brush, dental floss, and an approved denture cleanser to gently remove any lingering plaque and food residue from the appliance. Soak your dentures in a container with lukewarm water or an approved denture soaking agent to prevent them from drying out and warping.
Remember to thoroughly rinse your dentures before you put them back in your mouth since denture cleaning products can be harmful if swallowed. With excellent care, your appliance may last for as long as ten years before needing replacement.
About the Practice
River Station Dentistry delivers the finest oral health services available in Montpelier. Led by Drs. Andrew Hale and Sally Bishko, the staff ensures that patients enjoy exemplary dental experiences so they can achieve better oral health and smiles they can be proud of. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. To learn more about proper denture care, contact the office online or dial (802) 223-2244.