Although you can wear your dentures all the time it is not advised. Leaving your dentures in 24/7 can cause several health issues and can reduce the life of your dentures. It is recommended that you remove your dentures while you sleep to allow the mouth to rest, prevent oral hygiene issues and to prevent faster wear of your dentures.
So, what would happen if you left your dentures in 24/7?
1. Bacteria growth
If you leave your dentures in while you sleep bacteria will grow them while they are in your mouth. This can lead to infections and other oral hygiene issues such as bad breath and unhealthy gum tissue. These issues will also be exacerbated by the lack of airflow to your teeth and gums caused by wearing your dentures continuously.
2. Denture induced Stomatitis
Mouth infections can be a common denture problem in wearers who don’t remove their dentures due to the associated cleanliness issues. Wearing your dentures 24/7 can cause a range of infections, however the most common is Stomatitis.
Stomatitis is an infection that is caused by an excess of yeast and usually presents along the upper denture. The symptoms of denture induced stomatitis may include small red bumps on the roof of the mouth or a general redness, especially below the upper dentures. Removing your dentures when you sleep and taking care of your dentures- including regular cleaning can reduce the likelihood of developing Stomatitis.
3. Increased bone loss in the jaw
Dentures can put added pressure on your gums and the bones underneath them. By wearing your dentures as suggested by your denture technician the amount of pressure you are putting your gums under is minimal, however when wearing your dentures constantly the pressure you are putting on your gums and the underlying bone will accelerate bone loss. This process is only gradual and affects internal bone density and quantity meaning it isn’t a negative effect you will be able to see, however eventually your gums will not be able to provide the adequate support necessary for your dentures. Without the correct bone structure, your dentures will not fit correctly and will not fit correctly and will begin to regularly fall out.
4. Cause wear to the dentures
When you wear your dentures while you sleep you don’t have the same level of control over the care you are taking with your dentures. Many people grind their teeth or clench their jaw while they sleep for example, both of these habits can cause the dentures to wear faster.
5. Reduce cleanliness
Dentures require the same level of cleaning as natural teeth. If you are wearing your dentures constantly it is likely you are not cleaning them regularly or to the correct level. Wearing your dentures constantly also increases the likelihood of bacteria growing on the dentures and staining or discolouration occurring. By removing your dentures and storing them safely while you sleep you are preventing any excess bacteria growth or staining damage from excessive use or lack of cleanliness.
What are the best ways to keep your dentures clean? Find more advice here.
Although it is important to not wear your dentures all the time, it is equally important not to leave your dentures out for too long. If you leave your dentures out regularly and for prolonged periods of time they can become dry, leading to warping and other damage. By wearing your dentures every day they will maintain their shape and last longer. This also allows your mouth to get used to the feeling of wearing them quicker, reducing discomfort and inflammation.
Find more tips on how you can extend the life of your dentures.
Not wearing your dentures all the time will help you avoid these negative effects to your dentures and can help you extend their life and maintain their aesthetic.
At Kevin Manners Denture Clinics we pride ourselves on achieving optimum results for patients with regards to denture cosmetics, comfort, fit and function. If you’re having problems with your existing dentures or if you’re starting to experience tooth loss, book a free consultation with us for an oral examination and to discuss your options.