When you first get your dentures, it’s normal to be excited about how they make you look and feel. You might be tempted to wear them constantly, but in some situations that can be a problem.
Most dentists would strongly recommend that you take out your dentures on occasion for a number of reasons. If you’re wondering why that is, and when you need to take them out, here’s a guide to how long you should wear your dentures.
How Much Can I Wear My Dentures?
Modern dentures are incredibly comfortable and look great, but you can’t wear them all the time.
At the very least, you need to take your dentures out while you sleep. This gives your gums an opportunity to rest up and your dentures time to soak in a cleaning solution, keeping your prosthetic free of bacteria and your gums free of sores.
When you first get your dentures, it’s also perfectly normal to need to take them out more often to give your gums a break. If your gums are sore, feel free to take them out.
What If I Don’t Remove My Dentures?
The reason dentists recommend that you take off your dentures before bed is because the gums need time to breathe. If you don’t let them do that for around 6-8 hours a night, it’s common to wind up with sores on your gums from your dentures rubbing.
There are also some bacterial and yeast infections that thrive in the moist environments created by dentures, and if you don’t air out your gums, these infections can cause a condition known as denture stomatitis. This can make the dentures swollen, red, and can cause a painful burning sensation.
Other Ways to Care for Your Dentures
If you want to stave off infection, one of the most important things to do is to soak your dentures in a cleaning solution overnight. This will keep them fresh and free of bacteria.
You should also brush your dentures after meals, and gently clean your gums when you take your prosthetic out to clear away any plaque buildup. Finally, see your dentist regularly for checkups. They’ll be able to check on the quality of your dentures and ensure that they still fit you well.
About the Author
Dr. Deidra Harrison-McClain actually began as a dental assistant before becoming a dentist herself, and through every phase of her career, her love for communicating the importance of dentistry to her patients hasn’t waned in the slightest. Dr. McClain received her dental degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville where she graduated at the top of her class. She completed her residency through the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry.
If you have any questions about dentures, she can be reached at her website or by phone at (615) 819-1644.