For patients with missing teeth, dentures are a life-changing treatment that can reconnect them to their smiles and their families. Not only do dentures restore the aesthetics of your teeth, but they also restore their function. With how valuable they are, it’s no wonder patients ask if they can wear them all the time. But is continuous wear safe? Continue reading to learn why you should take your dentures out and give your mouth a break!
The Risks of All-Day Denture Wear
While wearing dentures around the clock may seem convenient, it’s important to consider the potential risks. Here are some of the reasons why keeping your dentures in could give you grief:
- Gum Irritation: Prolonged denture wear can lead to gum irritation and inflammation, especially if the dentures are ill-fitting or not properly cleaned. This can result in discomfort, sensitivity, and even the development of oral sores.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Wearing your dentures all the time may hinder good oral hygiene. Dentures must be taken out and cleaned thoroughly along with your gums and any remaining teeth. Failure to do this could keep oral bacteria trapped against your gums issues like gum disease.
- Bone Resorption: As you wear your prosthetics and bite down, they apply pressure to the underlying jawbone. Over time, this can cause bone loss to accelerate, especially if they are old or not properly fitted.
Best Practices for Wearing Dentures
Okay, so wearing dentures 24/7 causes a lot of issues, but what should you do instead? Here are some guidelines to ensure safe and comfortable denture use:
- Stick to a Schedule: it’s strongly recommended to remove your dentures at night to give the oral tissues a chance to rest and recover. Try to create a schedule for wearing your prosthetics each day and follow it as closely as you can. When you’re not wearing your prosthetics, place them in a cool glass of water to keep them moist and prevent bacterial growth.
- Practice Good Oral Care: Clean your dentures thoroughly twice a day with a mild colorless soap and soft toothbrush to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria. At the same time, use regular toothpaste to brush your gums, tongue, cheeks, and any remaining teeth you have. This will ensure you have a clean mouth to support your dentures each day.
- Regular Dental Checkups: The final piece of the puzzle when it comes to healthy denture wear is regular checkups with your dentist. If your dentures don’t fit correctly, they can do real harm to your oral health. Your dentist can assess your dentures and address any issues to ensure comfortable wear.
As you can see, while wearing dentures 24/7 may offer convenience, it’s important to weigh the potential risks and benefits. By following recommended wear schedules, practicing good oral hygiene, and seeking guidance from your dentist, you can support a healthy and comfortable smile!
About the Practice
Dr. Ryan Shaffer and Dr. Steven Shaffer are bright and talented dentists who love helping their patients find their smiles again. With ultramodern dental technology and techniques, they provide beautiful and long-lasting denture prosthetics that will complete your grin and let you focus on enjoying life. Call (402) 423-1616 to schedule a denture consultation at South Ridge Dental or visit the website to discover other treatments and services they provide.