Keeping your dentures in around the clock seems far more convenient than taking them out off-and-on, but is it safe? The short answer is no, and dentists are pretty much in-step when it comes to that advice. Here’s why taking them out at night matters more than you might think.
Your Gums Need to Rest
Dentures stay in place via suction and muscle control, which puts constant pressure on your gums and the underlying bone. Giving those structures a break each night allows them to recover, keep healthy circulation, and stay in better condition overall. When dentures are worn continuously without rest, your gums can become inflamed, irritated, and more prone to sores, especially in spots where the prosthetics make contact.
Bacteria Build Up Fast
Your mouth is full of bacteria, and dentures are basically bathing in them constantly, allowing them to accumulate. Wearing your prosthetics 24/7, even while sleeping, gives bacteria more time to multiply, increasing the risk of gum irritation, bad breath, and oral infections.
One of the most common of these issues is oral thrush, a fungal infection that develops when there’s an overgrowth on denture surfaces. Without proper rest and cleaning, the infection can spread to other soft tissues in your mouth. Removing your dentures at night and soaking them in a cleaning solution significantly reduces this risk.
Bone Loss Accelerates
When teeth go missing, a process known as resorption begins. This is where your body “reclaims” the unused bone nutrients, leaving your jawbone thinner and more brittle. The pressure of ill-fitting or constantly worn dentures can actually speed up this process, more quickly changing the shape of your face and causing your dentures to lose their fit. By simply taking your dentures out every night, you can slow down this process, saving you money and stress.
What to Do Instead
It’s best to create a routine that works for you and gives your mouth a break. Remove your dentures before bed, rinse them thoroughly, and soak them overnight in water or a denture cleaning solution. Then, clean your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft brush before bed.
With a simple routine and a great dentist in your corner, you can enjoy the many benefits that dentures bring without the headaches. Prosthetics feeling loose or uncomfortable? Talk to your dental team. They can help you restore the fit and comfort of your smile, so it lasts for years to come.
About The Practice
At Prosper Dental Health, Dr. Marisol Trautmann and Dr. Yaritza Vazquez provide personalized denture care to help patients enjoy comfortable restorations for years. Whether you need a new set of dentures, a reline, or just have questions about caring for your current ones, our team is here to help. Give us a call at (972) 347-2233 to schedule your appointment.