Whether you are missing some or all of your natural teeth, your dentist can provide lifelike dentures to restore your smile’s appearance and functionality. These replacements typically consist of a gum-colored acrylic base and pontics (teeth) made from durable ceramic. Not only are they designed to be comfortable and resilient, but they are also customized to look as lifelike as possible.
As a result, you might wonder whether it’s acceptable to wear your dentures 24/7 rather than taking them out at night. Continue reading to learn 3 reasons to remove them to soak while you sleep, instead!
Concern #1: Decreased Circulation
Standard dentures rely on a firm suction against the connective tissues over the bony ridges in your mouth to remain in place all day. Unfortunately, this reduces circulation to your gums, hindering your body’s ability to deliver essential nutrients and infection-fighting cells. This can increase your vulnerability to developing sores or gum disease that make it uncomfortable to wear your new teeth.
As a result, most dentists recommend removing your restoration at night. This allows your gums to rest and recover, improving your resistance to oral issues.
Concern #2: Accelerated Bone Loss
Many people are aware that tooth loss can impact their ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently, but did you know it also weakens your jawbone? The roots of your pearly whites stimulate new bone growth with each bite down, which keeps your jaw active and healthy. When they go missing, you can lose up to 25% of the surrounding density within the first year.
Your dentures form a tight bond against the tissues in your mouth, which puts added pressure on your jaw that can speed up this process of degeneration. Taking them out while you sleep helps preserve more of your natural dental structure.
Concern #3: Denture Stomatitis
Germs, leftover food, and other residue can become trapped in the space between your restoration and your connective tissues. If you wear it 24/7, bacteria can thrive and contribute to oral diseases, like denture stomatitis. This occurs when bacteria, like yeast, multiply and trigger an inflammatory immune response that can irritate, inflame, and darken your gums.
If left unaddressed, this can cause chronic inflammation that suppresses your immune system, lowering your body’s resistance to other illnesses and diseases. You should remove your dentures to gently scrub them twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild dish soap, and leave them in a glass of water or cleaning solution overnight to eradicate remaining germs.
If you’ve been wearing your dentures night and day and are concerned that you have developed a problem, contacting your dentist sooner rather than later allows them to identify and treat the issue before it progresses!
About the Practice
At Rensch and Laster Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, people of all ages benefit from two dentists dedicated to helping families in Raleigh enhance their lives by improving their dental health. Dr. Rensch and Dr. Laster collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs under one roof, including dentures. Their compassionate approach is paired with state-of-the-art technology to improve patient comfort while providing accurate, long-lasting results. If you’re worried you might have a problem, you can request an appointment on the website or call (919) 787-0355.