what happens if you wear your dentures all the time

2 min read 22-12-2024

what happens if you wear your dentures all the time

Dentures are a fantastic solution for missing teeth, restoring your smile and ability to eat properly. But like any oral appliance, they need proper care and shouldn't be worn 24/7. Wearing your dentures constantly can lead to several oral health problems. Let's explore the potential consequences of continuous denture wear.

The Dangers of 24/7 Denture Use

Many people assume that wearing dentures constantly is beneficial. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Continuous denture wear can negatively impact your oral health in several ways.

1. Gum Irritation and Soreness

Continuous pressure from dentures can irritate and inflame your gums. This leads to soreness, redness, and even the development of sores. The lack of air circulation under the dentures exacerbates this issue.

2. Increased Risk of Infection

A moist environment under ill-fitting dentures is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. This can lead to infections like denture stomatitis, characterized by painful inflammation and redness of the gums and tissues under the dentures. Severe infections may require medical attention.

3. Bone Loss and Jawbone Resorption

Your jawbone relies on the stimulation provided by your teeth's roots. When you wear dentures all the time, this stimulation is absent. Consequently, your jawbone can start to resorb (shrink), leading to a sunken facial appearance and making it harder to retain your dentures in the future. This bone loss can also impact your bite and overall oral health. Regular removal allows for gentle massage and stimulation of the underlying tissues, helping to prevent resorption.

4. Difficulty in Cleaning Your Dentures and Mouth

Wearing dentures continuously makes thorough cleaning difficult. Food particles can get trapped under the dentures, promoting bacterial growth and contributing to bad breath. Cleaning your mouth properly is also hampered by the constant presence of the dentures.

5. Denture-Induced Denture Stomatitis

Denture stomatitis is a common infection affecting those who wear dentures. It’s mainly caused by a yeast called Candida albicans. While often treatable, continuous denture wear significantly increases your risk. Symptoms include redness, soreness, and a burning sensation in your mouth.

6. Altered Taste and Smell

The constant presence of dentures can sometimes affect your sense of taste and smell. This is often linked to the buildup of bacteria and food particles beneath the appliance.

How Often Should You Remove Your Dentures?

Dental professionals generally recommend removing your dentures overnight. This allows your gums to rest and breathe. It also provides an opportunity for thorough cleaning of both your dentures and your mouth. Ideally, you should remove them for at least 6-8 hours daily.

Proper Denture Care

Proper denture care is crucial to maintaining oral health. This involves:

Brushing your dentures: Gently brush your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner.
Soaking your dentures: Soak your dentures overnight in a denture-cleaning solution to remove any remaining food particles and bacteria.
Cleaning your mouth: Brush your gums and tongue thoroughly after removing your dentures.
Regular dental check-ups: Regular visits to your dentist are essential for monitoring your oral health and ensuring your dentures fit properly.

Conclusion

While dentures greatly improve the quality of life for many people, wearing them continuously is detrimental to your oral health. Removing your dentures regularly, along with proper cleaning, is essential for preventing gum irritation, infections, bone loss, and other complications. Consult your dentist or prosthodontist for personalized advice on denture care and usage. Remember, proper denture care is key to maintaining a healthy mouth and a comfortable fit. Don't hesitate to reach out to your dental professional with any questions or concerns.