If you have a history of tooth loss, you know how difficult it can be to complete daily tasks. This includes speaking, eating, and smiling with confidence. The good news is that there is a solution – even for those without existing teeth. Dentures can restore the appearance and function of your smile, but can you wear them all of the time? Here’s what you should know.
How Long Should You Wear Your Dentures?
It is usually recommended that you wear your dentures most of the time for the first few days after you get them. This includes when you sleep. Once your mouth becomes adjusted to your restoration, it is recommended that you remove them before you go to sleep at night. Dentures typically need around six to eight hours outside of your mouth each day to give the gum tissue a break beneath them.
When dentures dry out, they become brittle, ill-fitting, and even painful to wear. This is why it is important that you keep your dentures in water or a soaking solution overnight as recommended by your dentist.
Why Shouldn’t You Wear Your Dentures All of the Time?
Ultimately, it isn’t a great idea to wear your dentures all of the time. Your mouth and prosthetic need a break now and again. Here are some of the consequences of wearing your dentures too long:
Accelerated Bone Loss
Dentures put additional pressure on the gum tissue and bone ridges that support them. When you wear your dentures all of the time, these areas aren’t given time to rest, so you could accelerate bone resorption. This means bone loss and inadequate support for your dentures, causing them to shift and fall out more easily.
Denture Hygiene
If you wear your dentures constantly, you likely aren’t taking as much time as necessary to cleanse them. Dentures accumulate bacteria and plaque throughout the day. This needs to be removed daily to avoid tartar and keep your breath fresh. Tartar buildup affects the appearance of your dentures and can even impact how they fit.
Denture Stomatitis
This is a condition in which the tissues that line the inside of the mouth become red, swollen, and acquire a burning sensation that can become painful. This occurs as a result of bacteria that thrive in moist, dark environments. By taking your dentures out, you can reduce your risk of this condition.
Respiratory Issues
When you keep your dentures in your mouth all of the time, you are exposing your throat to the bacteria present on your restoration. This can increase your risk for the common cold, respiratory infections, and pneumonia.
Dentures make a significant difference in your quality of life, but it’s so important that you use them as recommended. By taking them out overnight, you can lower risks and enjoy your restored smile!
About the Practice
At Villagio Family & Cosmetic Dental, we have a team of skilled dentists serving patients in the Katy community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof, including dentures as well as other tooth replacement solutions. To learn more about dentures or to schedule a consultation, visit our website or call (281) 395-2100.