Millions of people around the globe are able to smile and eat with confidence thanks to dentures. Whether you currently have one or are thinking about getting a set in the near future, a question people often ask is a very simple one, “Can you wear dentures all day and night?” The answer isn’t as straightforward as it seems, and to find out what dentists recommend and how this will influence your day-to-day experience, keep reading.
The Simple Answer Is…
No, you should not wear dentures 24/7.
The reason for this is multi-faceted and based on what is best for both the dentures as well as a patient’s mouth.
Why You Shouldn’t Wear Dentures 24/7
If a person doesn’t remove their denture regularly, this means that the underside of the prosthetic won’t ever be properly cleaned. This can lead to a buildup of bacteria that causes a litany of problems, including bad breath, gum disease, and pain. Plus, an excess of oral bacteria can easily be breathed in throughout the day or night and increase the risk of lung infections.
Dentures place a lot of pressure on the gums and underlying bone whenever someone chews. Without removing the dentures and allowing these tissues to rest, it can lead to them breaking down at an accelerated rate. This will not only alter how the dentures fit, but over time, the overall shape of a person’s face and jaw will negatively change as well.
When Should You Take Out Your Dentures?
Fortunately, dentists and denture-makers alike have put a lot of thought into this, and there are just a few simple steps people need to follow every day:
- Take your dentures out at night so the tissues covered by them have a chance to breathe and rest while you sleep. This will reduce oral inflammation and bacteria.
- Whenever you clean your dentures, remove them so their entire surface can be brushed and rinsed. Ideally, this should be done two to three times a day.
- A few times a week, soak your dentures in a dedicated cleaning solution to remove anything that daily hygiene can’t.
In the end, this still means that a person will be wearing their dentures most of the day, but not all the time or through the night. The result will be a healthier mouth, a longer-lasting denture, and an overall stronger smile.
About the Practice
Texas Dentistry of Terrell is led by a team of dedicated and experienced dentists that enable locals to get everything they need in a convenient, friendly place. If you are currently wanting to replace your missing teeth, we offer both traditional dentures as well as dental implants. We combine the finest materials with the latest technology and techniques to deliver results that help patients feel like they’ve gotten their natural teeth back. To learn more about your options and schedule a consultation, click here or call (972) 563-9444.