It was a bit of a challenge, but you finally got your new dentures! Since dentures basically act as a bandage and help your gums heal faster, it’s perfectly natural to wear them in your mouth the first night. (and even recommended by dentists) But is it really a good idea to wear dentures overnight, or is it something you should stay away from? In short, the answer is: Wearing dentures at night will do you more harm than good.
Benefits of Wearing Dentures at Night
There are a number of health benefits that come with removing your dentures at night.
.Prevents bone loss: The pressure exerted on your gums and the bone under the dentures can accelerate bone resorption.
.More frequent fit: As a result of bone loss and gingival resorption, your dentures may become looser than usual, increasing the likelihood of slipping and reducing the variety of foods you can eat.
.Stops bacterial growth: The place where your dentures and gums meet is the perfect place for bacteria to grow, which leads to morning bad breath and can eventually cause gum disease. By wearing your dentures at night, you deprive your gums of bacteria-free rest.
.Prevents gingivitis: Sleeping with dentures can negatively affect the flow of saliva, blocking the pathway of saliva, which can lead to a condition called denture stomatitis. Denture stomatitis, also known as thrush, is a condition in which the area under your dentures can become red and swollen, leading to yeast-infested, inflamed gums.
Taking care of your dentures at night
The best way to keep your mouth healthy and ensure the longevity of your dentures is to remove them every night and clean them thoroughly.
How Should You Care for Your Dentures at Night?
.Gargle with warm water: Warm water helps loosen the adhesive on your denture adhesive, which makes it easier for your dentures to come off.
.Remove your dentures: Start by removing your lower denture and then your upper denture. It’s worth keeping in mind that different types of prostheses require a different approach when it comes to removing them. Read more on how to remove dentures for a more detailed explanation.
.To remove food particles: rinse dentures under running water.
.Brush the dentures with a denture or soft regular toothbrush: You can use water, denture paste or non-abrasive toothpaste. Avoid ordinary toothpastes that contain abrasives.
.Get rid of sticky residue in your mouth: Gargle with warm salt water and wipe your gums and palate using a clean cloth. Then rinse your mouth again with warm water. You can also brush your gums with a very soft toothbrush. If you are using partial dentures, brush your natural teeth. You can also use mouthwash to keep your mouth fresh and prevent dental plaque from forming on your remaining natural teeth or to remove bacteria from your gums.
.Soak your dentures overnight in a denture cleaning solution or water: You can also use fast-acting cleaners first and then store your denture in water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the denture cleaner package. If you have a sectioned denture, use the cleaning solution designed for the section.
.In the morning, rinse your denture thoroughly with water before putting it in your mouth: Whatever type of dentures you use, wearing them in your sleep is a bad idea and will cause you a host of health problems later on. To keep your mouth bacteria-free, your gums healthy, and your bones strong and strong, be sure to remove your dentures every night before you go to sleep.
