If you’ve lost some of your teeth, you know how much of a challenge 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 if you no longer have any existing teeth! Dentures can restore the appearance and function of your smile, but can you wear them at all times? 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 of rest per day to rest the gum tissue beneath them.
When dentures dry out completely, they can become brittle. They can also become painful to wear. Overnight, to keep your dentures from drying out, keep your dentures in water or a soaking solution as directed to you by your dentist.
Why Shouldn’t You Wear Your Dentures 24/7?
Ultimately, it isn’t a good idea to wear your dentures all the time. Your mouth (and your restoration) need a break now and again. Here are some of the consequences of wearing your denture too long:
Accelerated Bone Loss
Dentures put pressure on the gum tissue and bone ridges that support them. When you wear your dentures all 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 are wearing your dentures constantly, you probably aren’t taking as much time to clean them. Dentures accumulate plenty of bacteria and plaque throughout the day. This must be removed daily to avoid tartar buildup and keep your restoration fresh. Not only does tartar buildup affect the appearance of your dentures, but it can also affect how they fit.
Denture Stomatitis
This is a condition of the tissues that line the inside of the mouth. It causes the tissue to become red, swollen, and acquire a burning sensation that can become painful. This occurs as a result of yeast and bacteria that thrive in moist, dark environments. By taking your dentures out, you can reduce your risk of this condition.
Respiratory Problems
When you keep your dentures in your mouth all the time, you are exposing your throat to the bacteria present on your restoration. This can increase your risk for colds, respiratory infections, and pneumonia. In fact, wearing dentures constantly doubles your risk of developing life-threatening pneumonia compared to someone who removes their dentures overnight.
Dentures can make a huge difference in your quality of life, but it’s crucial that you are using them properly. By taking them out overnight, you can avoid all sorts of risks and enjoy your new smile!
About the Practice
At Texas Dentistry and Braces, we have a team of five skilled dentists serving patients in the Kaufman community. With their combined experience and expertise, you can get pretty much anything you need under one roof. For more information on dentures or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (972) 932-3918.