Can I Wear My Dentures Every Night?

You have patiently waited for weeks to get your hands on your new dentures in Lake Worth, and now that you finally have them, you can’t wait to show everyone your new smile! We understand that you want to wear them all the time, but dentists recommend you take them out when you sleep. Your dentist may instruct you to wear them during the first night, but the days after that, you’ll need to take them out because if you leave dentures in while you sleep, you’ll be putting your oral health at risk. 

Is It Okay to Wear My Dentures Overnight? 

Dentures Defined 

A denture is a dental prosthesis designed to replace one or more missing teeth. The device is removable, and it comes with artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored base secured through a metal framework. There are two types of dentures – complete and partial. Complete dentures are for individuals who have lost all their teeth, while partial dentures are for people who still have several natural teeth left. 

Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Wear Dentures in Your Sleep 

Your dentist has reasons why you’re discouraged from wearing your dentures overnight. The following are why it’s best to soak your dentures in a denture solution while getting some shuteye. 

#1 Prevents Bone Loss 

Did you know that you exert unnecessary pressure on your gums when you’re always wearing dentures? Unfortunately, studies show that unwanted pressure can lead to bone resorption. 

#2 Keeps Your Dentures Fitting Well 

Bone loss and gum resorption will affect the fit of your dentures. Sadly, it will cause your dentures to feel loose, increasing the chances of slippage. Furthermore, ill-fitting dentures are uncomfortable to wear and can cause discomfort when eating. 

#3 Prevents Bacterial Growth 

Dentures can harbor bacteria. Typically, it happens in the area where your gums and dentures meet. When you wear dentures overnight, bacteria can accumulate and cause bad breath. Awful morning breath isn’t the only reason why dentists are worried. Research reveals that wearing dentures at night can lead to gum disease. We suggest you give your gums a break. 

#4 Prevents Gum Disease 

Are you aware that if you sleep with dentures on, it will impede natural saliva flow? When saliva is blocked, you’ll be predisposed to a condition known as denture stomatitis or a thrush. The gum tissues directly underneath your dentures can turn swollen, red, and inflamed. 

How Should You Care for Your Dentures at Night? 

Your goals are to keep your mouth healthy while wearing dentures and ensure that your dentures last long. To do that, you must follow the following denture care guidelines: 

• Some patients prefer to clean their dentures in the kitchen sink, while others do it in their bathrooms. Regardless, you should prepare the cleaning area. Roll up a clean towel around the sink and lay another one at the bottom so that if you accidentally drop your dentures, they won’t hit the sink and break. The towels will serve as a protective cushion. 
• Get a glass of warm water and take a swish. The warm temperature of the water will help break the tight seal of your denture adhesive, making it less difficult for you to remove them. 
• Take your dentures out. Start by removing the bottom and then, followed by your top denture. There are different ways to remove dentures, depending on their location. It’s best to ask your dentist for a demonstration so you can practice at home. 
• Rinse your dentures in running water to get rid of bacteria and food debris. 
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a special denture brush to clean your dentures. Make sure you don’t use abrasive toothpaste. Ask your dentist for a recommendation. You must be extra selective with your toothpaste to avoid scratching your dentures. 
• Remove the adhesive residues by gargling with warm saline solution and then wiping your gums and the roof of your mouth with a clean washcloth. Rinse your mouth with warm water. For patients wearing partial dentures, follow the same steps but also ensure to brush and floss your natural teeth. 
• Once you’re done cleaning your dentures, it’s time to keep them moist and soak them in a denture cleaning solution overnight. It’s easy; you just need to read the instructions printed on the cleanser pack. Keeping your dentures moist is vital so they won’t lose their shape. 
• When you wake up, remove your dentures from the solution and rinse them in water before putting them back inside your mouth. 

How Long Should You Wear Dentures? 

Dentists advise their patients not to wear dentures for more than 24 hours without cleaning them. If you do this, you’ll be susceptible to oral health problems and complications. 

How Are You Caring for Your Dentures in Lake Worth? 

Regardless of whether you’re wearing complete or partial dentures, the important thing to remember is to remove them when you sleep. At Ferber Dental Group, we offer a wide range of restorative dental treatments to help bring your smile and confidence back. We also provide patient education so our patients can make the most of their dental investments. Contact us today to learn more.