Can you sleep with dentures in?
When you talk, eat, or drink, food particles collect around and under dentures. If you sleep with dentures, the particles become trapped, leading to harmful bacteria that cause infections, gum disease, and irritation.
For the health of your gums and mouth, it is recommended that you remove dentures at night. Removing dentures nightly can lower the risk of infections, give your gums a chance to breathe, and prevent them from becoming sore.
Nightly Denture Care
To keep your dentures in good condition, follow these tips.
Remove your dentures and rinse them after your last meal of the day to remove food particles.
Brush your dentures with a soft-bristle brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner.
Soak your dentures overnight in water or soaking solution to help them maintain their shape.
Maintain good oral hygiene habits, brushing your gums and tongue twice a day, and visit a dentist regularly.
Store your dentures in a secure container when not in use to avoid damage or loss.
Risks of Sleeping in Dentures
Some other possible side effects from sleeping in dentures include:
Bone loss. Prolonged use of dentures can quicken bone resorption, where bone tissue breaks down and is released into the bloodstream.
Bad breath. The bacteria that build up from constantly wearing dentures can cause breath to smell.
Gum disease. Gum disease, or gingivitis, is also caused by a buildup of bacteria resulting from the lack of gum rest and breathing when dentures are removed.
Denture stomatitis. Thrush can block the production of saliva, allowing yeast to grow under the dentures.
Warped dentures. Wearing dentures for too long can cause them to loosen quickly due to the additional pressure of a closed mouth during sleep.
Take Care of Your Dentures and Oral Health
With proper care, dentures can help you eat, speak, and smile comfortably for years. At Hale Family Dentistry, we specialize in denture care and long-term oral health. Call today to schedule an appointment and maintain your oral health.