Should you sleep with dentures in your mouth at night or not? This is a ubiquitous question. Dentures offer several benefits to people who have lost their natural teeth: They can help them have a pleasing smile, regain the ability to eat a greater variety of foods, and speak more clearly. However, wearing dentures also have some downsides, let us have a look at them.
Resorption
First of all, they put pressure on the gums and the bony ridges beneath them. The pressure causes resorption, which results in a gradual decrease in bone volume and density. The loss brings inadequate support for the dentures, causing them to become loose and fall out more quickly. The effects also include alleviated support for the cheeks and lips, causing very dramatic changes in facial appearance.
Risk of Oral Bacteria
Also, if proper care is not taken, the under surfaces of dentures can become breeding grounds for oral bacteria and fungi, resulting in irritation, odors, and disease.
Plaque Formation
Those wearing dentures during sleep are more likely to have tongue and denture plaque and gum inflammation. Good oral hygiene among denture-wearers is essential and reduces the risk of serious illness.
Other Concerns
There are other concerns, as well. Continually wearing dentures, especially at night when salivary flow naturally diminishes, often results in “denture stomatitis.” This affects tissues under dentures. Typically it occurs under full upper dentures that cover the palate, which becomes reddened, inflamed, and infected with yeast.
Whether you wear full or partial dentures, taking them out is essential to give the gums and other related tissues a chance to rest and recover. Removing your dentures for at least 4 to 5 hours per day is the healthiest thing to do.
For more information regarding dentures consult our dental experts, call Waller Dental at 936-372-2673.