Reasons Why You Should Not Sleep In Your Dentures

Losing all, or some of your teeth can be heartbreaking for some. Maybe you are in your early 20’s and are afraid of what you will look like with no or missing teeth. Maybe you’re afraid your jawbones will deteriorate. All of these things are real worries that people are tempted to sleep in their dentures. These are the reasons why you should not sleep in your dentures.

Denture Stomatitis

Denture stomatitis is a condition that inflames the gums underneath the denture. This usually happens when a denture wearer does not take their denture out to clean properly. Denture stomatitis is common in older people, and people that have an upper denture that never takes them out at night, or any at all. This condition is caused by having a yeast infection in the mouth. The only way to get rid of denture stomatitis is to practice good mouth hygiene and take out the denture and put them in a cleaning solution overnight.

Weakening of the Dentures

Sleeping in dentures can cause bacteria to build up and will cause the denture to weaken. When the denture weakens, it can begin to fall about. Sleeping with the dentures in will cause the deterioration of the denture to come on quicker. Extra plaque on the tongue will also cause bad breath.

Bone Loss

It is true if you get dentures, you will have bone loss but if you wear them all the time and even at night. The loss of bone will deteriorate more rapidly. When the denture is worn at night, they put pressure on the gums and bone. This will cause the bone to deteriorate more rapidly than taking out the dentures at night.

Greater Risk of Developing Pneumonia

Sleeping with dentures can cause a greater chance of getting a lung infection. The bacteria that can be under the dentures can be sucked down into the lungs, and cause pneumonia. The elderly are most prone to get an infection and are double at risk for developing pneumonia.

Gum Soreness

Not giving your gums a break from your dentures from time to time can cause your gums to become sore. When your gums become sore, you can develop sores under the dentures. If this happens, you will not be able to wear dentures comfortably.

All in all, wearing permanent or partial dentures at night is a big no-no. It will cause a lot of problems, and even risk your health. Taking out dentures at night and having an excellent oral routine will keep you healthy, and your dentures looking brand new.