Dentures offer many benefits to people who have lost their natural teeth. Your dentures give you the ability to smile confidently, eat more foods and to speak clearer. Although dentures replace your natural teeth, there are some ways that dentures aren’t like your natural teeth. You shouldn’t sleep while wearing your dentures. Although one night probably won’t harm you, regularly sleeping while wearing dentures can cause some long-term problems.

You might assume that dentures need to come out at night for cleaning. While you are right, there are additional reasons your dentures need a break from your mouth and your mouth needs a break from your dentures.

1. Dentures Pressure Your Gums

Your dentures are held in place by pressure, which keeps your dentures from falling out. It also causes a decrease in the bone density in your jaw. When you wear your dentures 24 hours a day, it increases the bone loss, causing discomfort from bad fit and changes in your facial appearance.

2. Wearing Dentures All Night Causes Bacteria Growth

At night, your mouth becomes dryer, because you don’t produce as much saliva. Bacteria and plaque grow faster, which causes irritation and bad breath. The tissues under the dentures need oxygen to prevent infections in the gums. Taking the dentures out each night gives your gums a rest to avoid inflammation.  

3. Taking Your Dentures Out at Night Reduces the Risk of Damage

When you sleep, you aren’t as conscious about your dental appliances. It could be easy for your complete dentures to fall out while you’re sleeping. Partial dentures may stay in place better due to the metal clasps, but there is also a risk of them coming loose. It’s just safer to take your dentures out while you’re asleep.  

When you’re not wearing your dentures, they should be kept moist. At night, you can soak your dentures in water or a denture-cleaning solution to help remove bacteria and germs. Brush your dentures every day, even if you use an effervescent tablet. A manual cleaning ensures that all the food particles and plaque on your dentures is removed each day. Brush your gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush to keep them healthy and to freshen your breath. Before placing your dentures back in your mouth, rinse them with cool water.  

The denturists with Baker Lanoue Denture Clinic can help you maintain your dentures for a good fit and healthy mouth. If you’re considering dentures or need repairs, we have a wide range of denture services to help you maintain a healthy mouth.    

If you live in Windsor or the surrounding area, please call 519-252-7772 to book your appointment or request a consultation online.