If you’ve recently received a set of dentures, you may be astounded to realize just how remarkably comfortable they are. Modern dentures are customized according to precise measurements of the mouth and crafted from lifelike materials to ensure that a patient’s new teeth look and feel like their old ones, but wearing them for too long can lead to some problems. Here’s a brief guide to why you should remove your dentures and soak them in water or an approved cleanser before going to bed.
What’s the Problem with Wearing My Dentures for Weeks Straight?
While your dentures may be incredibly comfortable, they still create a dark, damp, warm, sheltered space between themselves and the gums when worn. This is exactly the sort of environment that harmful oral bacteria love, and as food debris becomes trapped beneath the appliance, these nasty germs can multiply rapidly and cause infection and irritation.
The gums need at least eight hours away from the dentures daily so they can rest and the mouth can clean itself. Wearing dentures also restricts blood flow to the soft tissues, so leaving them in for too long can lead to gum disease, gum recession, or even erosion of the jawbone.
How Should I Soak My Dentures Before Bed?
Before removing your dentures, fill the basin of your sink with lukewarm water and cover the countertop with folded towels to create a safety cushion in case you drop your appliance. Carefully brush your dentures using a soft-bristled brush and an approved cleaning agent. Avoid normal toothpaste, as this can be abrasive enough to leave unsightly scratches in your artificial teeth. Then, floss your dentures to eliminate hard-to-reach plaque and food debris.
When you remove your dentures, it’s important to soak them in a vessel filled with water or an approved cleaning agent to prevent them from drying out and warping. Never use hot or cold water when cleaning or soaking your dentures, as extreme temperatures can cause your appliance to warp or break. Before putting your appliance back in in the morning, be sure to thoroughly rinse any cleaning product from its surface, as these substances can be harmful if swallowed.
Dentures can be a great way to restore a compromised smile. Caring for your appliance properly can help keep your mouth and your new teeth in great shape for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Sikander Singh earned his dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and completed his General Practice Residency at the York Hospital in 2006. He is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association, the York County Dental Society, and the Pennsylvania Dental Association. His office in York offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. To learn more about proper denture care, contact his office online or dial (717) 755-4143.
