Dental prostheses have come a long way since George Washington wore his famous false teeth made out of ivory. Modern dentures are so incredibly comfortable and lifelike that their wearers often forget that they are there. While it may be tempting to leave your dentures in your mouth continuously, this is a bad idea that can lead to serious oral infections. Here’s a brief overview of the risks of wearing your dentures for too long and why you should remove and soak them daily.
The Health Risks of Continuous Denture Wear
Wearing dentures restricts blood flow to the gums. Shortly after tooth loss, the jawbone begins to atrophy and recede due to the absence of the stimulation that comes from the chewing process. The pressure dentures exert and the reduced circulation in the gums can accelerate the process of bone loss, which can lead to a sunken mouth and a withered appearance.
To make matters worse, food particles and plaque can accumulate between the gums and dentures. In addition to causing gum irritation, these nasty buildups allow harmful oral bacteria to multiply rapidly. Wearing your dentures continuously can provide shelter for these germ colonies and lead to gum disease and other destructive oral infections.
Wearing Your Dentures Too Long Can Ruin Their Appearance
Wearing your dentures constantly will also erode their appearance. Your dentures must be removed and cleaned every day to eliminate food residue and plaque, and neglecting to do this can lead to unsightly stains developing on the artificial teeth. The accumulation of decaying food and bacteria can also result in an unpleasant smell that can be noticed on your breath.
How Should I Care for My Dentures
Your dentures should be removed for eight hours every day so that the mouth has time to rest and clean itself, and most people do this before bed. When your dentures are out of your mouth for this long, it’s important to soak them in water or an approved denture-soaking solution to prevent them from drying out and warping. It’s also important to brush and floss your dentures every day to keep them clean. Just remember to use specialized denture cleaners or gel toothpaste, as conventional toothpaste is too abrasive and can leave scratches on your appliance.
Dentures are an investment in your appearance and your oral health. With excellent care, your appliance can last up to ten years before needing replacement.
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Rowley earned his dental degree at Nova Southeastern University and stays current with the latest developments in his field through continuing education courses. He is also proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, and the Central Florida District Dental Association. His office in Melbourne, FL, 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 (321) 723-1772.