Dentures are an effective solution for restoring your smile after tooth loss. They not only help you regain the ability to eat and speak normally but also enhance your appearance, boosting your confidence. While it may take some time to adjust to wearing dentures, most people eventually find them comfortable enough to forget they’re even there. However, it’s important to give your mouth a break from wearing them, especially at night. If you’re wondering why it’s important to remove your dentures before bed, continue reading!
Prevent Accelerated Bone Loss
After tooth loss, the jawbone begins to deteriorate because it no longer receives stimulation from your tooth roots when you bite or chew. Dentures rely on the bony ridges in your mouth for stability, using suction to stay in place. However, keeping your dentures in 24/7 can prevent these ridges from resting and can accelerate bone loss. Over time, this could affect the fit of your dentures, making them less stable and requiring adjustments or replacements more frequently.
By removing your dentures at night, you give your jawbone and gums a chance to rest, helping to slow down the natural process of bone deterioration.
Reduce Bacterial Growth
Bacteria thrive in the warm, moist environment between your dentures and your gums. If you don’t regularly remove and clean your dentures, harmful bacteria can accumulate, potentially leading to issues like bad breath, gum irritation, or even gum disease.
Soaking your dentures overnight not only eliminates bacteria but also helps keep your dentures in optimal condition. This practice allows you to thoroughly clean both your dentures and gums, ensuring you start each day with a fresh, clean mouth. Regular cleaning will also extend the life of your dentures and improve your overall oral health.
Avoid Mouth Sores and Irritation
Wearing your dentures constantly, especially if they don’t fit properly, can cause friction between the dentures and your gums, leading to painful sores or irritation. This can be particularly uncomfortable and might even prevent you from wearing your dentures until the sores heal.
Removing your dentures at night gives your gums a much-needed break from the pressure and allows any minor sores or irritation to heal while you sleep. For extra comfort during the day, you might also consider using denture adhesives, which provide a cushion between your gums and the dentures while creating a more secure fit. This can help reduce friction and prevent sore spots from developing in the first place.
About the Author
Dr. Scott Olson is a highly skilled dentist who’s dedicated to staying at the forefront of dental care through ongoing education. Thanks to his advanced training, he offers comprehensive services to address multiple oral health issues. If you’d like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Olson, you can book that appointment via his website or call (417) 233-0181.