Patient Info
Dental Implants
Cosmetic Dentistry
General Dentistry
It's quite a journey – you've finally acquired your gleaming new dentures! Can you sleep with dentures in? That's the burning question many ask after receiving their new set. Initially, it's common to keep them overnight as a soothing bandage aiding gum recovery. But is this practice advisable in the long term? The short answer is NO; leaving dentures in at night might do more harm than good.
Keep reading to find out why! Following these steps doesn't just keep your dentures clean and prevent bacteria from building up; it also gives your gums the break they need.
Dentures are important for restoring your smile after losing natural teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury. They not only enhance your appearance but also make speaking and eating easier while helping to maintain the appearance of your face. Dentures themselves don't cause oral health problems. However, neglecting your oral health while wearing dentures may lead to issues. Sleeping with your dentures increases the risk of bacteria buildup, which can potentially cause gum disease in the long term.
Sleeping with dentures also increases the likelihood of developing denture stomatitis, an infection caused by a yeast or fungus known as candida. Denture stomatitis results in sore, red, and inflamed gums that may require treatment. If ignored, this condition can result in ill-fitting dentures over time. Some research suggests that older individuals who sleep with their dentures might have a higher chance of developing pneumonia. You can prevent potential health issues by taking out and cleaning your dentures at night.
Initially, you may need to wear your dentures for most of the day, including during sleep, for the first few days. As your mouth becomes used to the dentures, you should refrain from wearing them overnight. Taking them out at night allows your gums to rest, reducing the risk of associated oral health issues.
Throughout the day, you should wear your dentures as usual unless instructed otherwise by your dentist.
Keeping your dentures clean is essential for preventing gum inflammation, infections, and further tooth loss. Cleaning your gums and dentures daily helps eliminate harmful bacteria and maintains oral health.
Treat your dentures with the same care as your natural teeth by cleaning them at least once daily and after meals if necessary. Generally, brush and soak your dentures daily using a non-abrasive denture cleaner, not toothpaste. Overnight, soak them in a denture-cleaning solution. Avoid using bleaching products to clean your dentures, as they can weaken them and cause breakage.
Follow the tips below to care for your dentures at night.
Fill the sink with warm water before removing your dentures for the night. Place a rolled-up towel on the edge of the sink to cushion your dentures in case they fall. Consider laying another towel on the floor if you're concerned about dropping or breaking it, especially on hard surfaces like stone or tile floors.
Rinsing with warm water can help loosen the grip of your denture adhesive, facilitating the removal of your dentures.
Start by taking out your bottom denture, then remove the top one. Different types of dentures may require different removal techniques. Refer to specific instructions for your type of dentures.
Run your dentures under running water to remove any loose food particles.
Use a denture brush or soft regular toothbrush to brush your dentures. Use water, denture paste, or non-abrasive toothpaste, and avoid using regular toothpaste with abrasives.
Gargle with warm salt water and use a clean washcloth to wipe along your gums and the roof of your mouth. Rinse your mouth with warm water again afterward.
If you have partial dentures, you should also brush your natural teeth. Consider using oral rinse for oral freshness and to prevent plaque buildup or bacteria on your gums.
Soak your dentures in a denture cleaning solution or water overnight.
Follow the instructions on the packaging of the denture cleanser. If you have partial dentures, use a cleaning solution designed for partials.
Thoroughly rinse your dentures with water before reinserting them into your mouth.
So, can you sleep with dentures in? While it may seem convenient, leaving dentures in overnight can lead to various issues, including bacterial buildup and discomfort. It's crucial to prioritize proper denture care, which includes removing them at night to allow your gums to rest and prevent potential health problems in the long run.
Enhance Your Oral Health Today! Book Your Appointment at Springhill Dental Health Center, Mobile, AL. For new patients, call (251) 265-7808. For existing patients, call (251) 343-1521 to secure your consultation.
Leaving dentures in while sleeping can lead to bacterial buildup, discomfort, and potential oral health issues.
It is recommended to remove dentures every night to allow your gums to rest and prevent oral health problems.
While it may seem convenient, removing dentures at night is best to maintain optimal oral health and prevent potential complications.
My visit was incredible. I had my “All on Four” appliances cleaned, and it was a painless and thorough experience. Dr. Scott and all his staff are very friendly. During the cleaning, Mary was gentle and let me know everything she was doing and how it would feel. She gave me tips on how to clean my implants/appliances better and gave me a small brush to do the underside more effectively. Dr. Scott and Mary suggest cleanings take place every 3 months so I will be back in December.
Dr. Byron Scott is a highly-trained and accomplished dentist. He attended The University of Alabama School of Dentistry and subsequently completed numerous Advanced Studies and Trainings. Dr. Scott is Board-Certified by The Academy of General Dentistry and has earned Mastership status (MAGD), an honor shared by only 1% of dentists. He has numerous memberships and associations, including Diplomate status with The American Board of Oral Implantology (D-ABOI) and The International Congress of Oral Implantologists (D-ICOI). Overall, Dr. Scott has dedicated his life and career to helping patients improve their oral health through expert dentistry. His goal is to help each patient keep their smile healthy, attractive, and comfortable for the duration of their lifetime.
