When you are missing all or many of your natural teeth, modern dentures are a great way to restore both the function and appearance smile. They are incredibly lifelike and are made from durable materials. Designed with your comfort in mind, you may be tempted to wear them all the time. However, not taking them out for the night can impact your oral health in a few ways. Keep reading to learn three reasons why you should remove them before bed.
1.) Increased Chance of Gum Disease
The reason why standard dentures stay firmly in place is because of suction. While this is beneficial for helping you eat with confidence, it reduces circulation to your gums. They won’t be able to get the nutrients they need to stay healthy, making them more susceptible to infection. Bacteria can also continue to grow underneath your dentures, leading to gum disease.
Thankfully, taking them out at night to clean and soak them will let your gums rest and ensure that they stay healthy.
2.) Experience Bone Loss Quicker
Missing teeth are often associated with bone loss because the roots that were once present are no longer stimulating your jawbone. Your body starts to reabsorb it and uses those minerals elsewhere. Dentures can help slow this rate, but wearing them 24/7 can accelerate it!
Without giving your gums a chance to breathe, the constant friction can lead to bone loss. Eventually, this causes them to not fit correctly and fall out more easily. The good news is that taking them out while you hit the hay will preserve your jaw.
3.) Denture Stomatitis
Yeast and bacteria that thrive in dark, damp environments are the main culprits. Wearing your dentures for 24/7 is a perfect place for these to grow out of control between your gums and prosthetic. It’s often followed by the soft tissues underneath becoming inflamed, noticeably red, and you having a burning sensation. Over time, denture stomatitis can even weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections.
Simply removing your dentures at night and giving them a good cleaning can help reduce your risk of all these issues. By using a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, gentle soap, you can remove any bacteria that can threaten your oral health. Let them soak overnight, and you can ensure that your new smile stays strong and happy!
About the Author
Dr. Robert Sanker is a proud prosthodontist who wants to help people in the Rockville community get a grin that they want to show off. He specialized in all things relating to restoring and replacing damaged teeth with a wide variety of dental services, such as dentures. That means you can trust that you get a renewed smile that leaves you feeling confident. If your dentures are causing you some discomfort, schedule an appointment or call (301) 468-5566.