Adjusting to dentures is a process. Once you get used to them, though, they can actually feel pretty snug. You might even be tempted to leave them in for 24/7 wear! However, there are a couple of reasons why working your dentures overtime isn’t a good idea. Keep reading to learn how this habit could affect your oral health and hygiene.
Gums Don’t Like It
Your dentures rest on your gums, meaning they rely on these pink supports a great deal. Unfortunately, dentures aren’t exactly weightless. Making your gums shoulder pressure every minute of every hour is likely to strain them, resulting in irritation, inflammation, and sores. Plus, your gums need a break so they can breathe and circulate smoothly. Trying to do that with a constant weight wouldn’t be fun for you, and it’s not fun for your gums!
Jawbones Don’t Like It Either
Did you know that it’s possible for your jawbone to deteriorate? When it doesn’t have dental roots to cling to, it’s actually quite sensitive. Pressure from biting, clenching, or sometimes even resting your dentures transfers through your gums and down to your jawbone. After a while, it’ll start to think twice about sticking around and recede at a faster rate.
It’s Unhygienic
When your gums can’t get the circulation they need, they’ll start to smell! Your dentures will attract less-than-savory odors too. You see, bacteria accumulates in your mouth as you sleep and go about your day. Even if you brush and floss your prosthetic on the regular, that bacteria can sneak underneath your dentures and cause gum disease. The only way to deal with it is to take your dentures out, clean them from top to bottom, and gently brush your gums.
The Benefits of a Denture Routine
For the sake of your oral health (and breath), it’s best to develop a solid denture routine. Dentists recommend taking your prosthetic out at night to avoid these issues. Letting them soak in a glass full of denture cleaning solution in the meantime helps keep them nice and sanitized. Before you insert them in the morning and after you remove them for bed, brush and floss your dentures thoroughly – from outside of your mouth.
Finally, arrange regular check-ins with your dentist to ensure your dentures always have a good fit. While not directly related to your overtime wear habits, ill-fitting dentures will also negatively impact your oral health. If some tweaking is necessary, you’ll be glad you stopped by!
About the Practice
Drs. Matt and Reagan Hiner enjoy helping their patients achieve improved comfort and oral health. As a husband-and-wife team, they combine their expertise to provide patients with quality treatments. From denture fittings to general hygiene, Dr. Matt and Dr. Reagan have got all your oral needs covered! To contact their office, call 713-667-6478.