Dentures remain a popular option for patients seeking to regain confidence and appearance after tooth loss. Their conservative approach and affordability make them attractive, especially for budget-conscious buyers. Also, their customization and lifelike materials ensure you receive a comfortable, more natural-looking aesthetic. But should these prosthetics be worn at all times? Keep reading to discover why dentists recommend removing them at night.
How Long Should You Wear Your Dentures Each Day?
Each person may choose to wear their dentures longer than others, but the general rule of thumb is that these teeth should not be worn all day. Instead, you are encouraged to take out your prosthetics before going to bed.
After all, they are removable, which means they need to be cleaned throughout the day. Also, when you think about how much wear and tear you place on your teeth, removing them at night gives them and your mouth a reprieve.
What Complications Can Occur If You Don’t Remove Your Teeth at Night?
Wearing your dentures while you sleep is strongly discouraged among dentists for many reasons:
- Bacterial Growth: Bad bacteria grow while you sleep, which only increases your risk of infections, bad breath, and gum disease if you wear your dentures.
- Faster Bone Loss: Dentures do not provide stimulation to your jawbone; however, choosing to wear your teeth at night only accelerates bone loss. This is because of the continuous pressure your dentures place on your gums and bone.
- Neglected Cleaning: Since dentures are removable, they need to be cleaned thoroughly throughout the day, including at night. They need to soak in a denture cleanser to help remove bacteria and other particles that you might miss with regular brushing.
- Stomatitis: This infection occurs in your oral tissues and is caused by yeast and bacteria. When your dentures cover your gums, it creates inflammation. As a result, your prosthetic may become uncomfortable to wear.
- Pneumonia: Pneumonia and other respiratory issues can occur if you wear your dentures 24/7. This is because you are continuing to wear your dentures, which may harbor bad bacteria that transfer to your mouth and throat. This increases the risk of serious infections, colds, and more.
Give your mouth the break it deserves and remove your dentures before going to bed. When you wake up, your gums and bone will be ready to deliver greater support to your newly crafted smile.
About the Author
Dr. Robert De Rosso is a skilled dentist with more than two decades of experience who provides his patients with one-of-a-kind, beautiful prosthetics. When those struggling with tooth loss arrive to discuss their treatment options, he and the team at Today’s Family Dental are pleased to offer fully customized dentures as a conservative, affordable option. If you are interested in learning more about these artificial teeth and how they can benefit your smile and oral health, contact us via our website or by calling (908) 689-8887 to schedule an appointment.