After losing some or all of your teeth, you’re bound to experience some difficulties with everyday tasks. This can involve eating, talking, and smiling confidently. If you’re struggling with these kinds of complications, you might consider getting dentures to restore your bite. After receiving your new teeth, you might wonder if you can wear your prosthetics 24/7. Read on to learn why you’ll need to eventually take them out every night.
How Long Should Dentures Be Worn?
Most dentists will instruct patients to wear their dentures for the first 24 hours after getting them. Afterward, you’ll need to take them out before going to bed every night. In many cases, your prosthetics will need to be out of your mouth for about six to eight hours a day so that your gum line underneath can get proper rest. Instead, you’ll want to soak them overnight in water or a cleaning solution while you sleep. This will also help keep them from drying out, as that can make them brittle and uncomfortable to wear.
Problems with Wearing Dentures All Day
Even though they aren’t your natural teeth, you’ll need to give your dentures a break occasionally. Some of the negative effects of wearing them for too long include:
Denture Hygiene
Since your dentures rest atop your gum line, wearing them all day can allow debris, food particles, and bacteria to accumulate in the space between. By cleaning the underside of your prosthetics and your gum tissue, you can prevent plaque and tartar buildup as well as potential infections.
Accelerated Bone Loss
Your dentures will place pressure on your gums and bone ridges when worn. If they’re in your mouth all day, these areas won’t have the chance to rest and receive essential nutrients. This can end up accelerating bone resorption, which will affect your facial shape and lead to ill-fitted dentures.
Respiratory Problems
Your throat can be exposed to any bacteria that accumulates on your prosthetics, which can increase your risk of complications like respiratory infections and common colds. Those who don’t remove their dentures overnight can end up doubling their chances of getting severe pneumonia compared to a person who soaks them while they sleep.
Denture Stomatitis
This condition occurs within the tissues lining the inside of your mouth, causing the area to become swollen and red while developing a burning sensation. Stomatitis is caused when yeast and bacteria grow in dark, moist environments, such as between your prosthetics and gums. Simply removing your dentures can significantly lower your risk of this issue.
Although your dentures can be life-changing for your smile and oral health, you’ll want to use them wisely. Be sure to take them out every night before bed, and you’ll be sure to stay clear of any risks in the long run!
About the Author
Dr. Zach Kingsberg has been in the field of dentistry for many years and is proud to offer exceptional care for his patients. He routinely seeks continuing education to remain up-to-date with the latest advancements, and he offers a wide range of essential treatments, including dentures. If you’d like to know more about the effects of wearing prosthetics for too long or wish to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call 214-473-5696.
