It is possible to wear a protective oral appliance, commonly known as a mouthguard, even with full or partial dentures. Mouthguards cushion the teeth and jaw, preventing injury during physical activity or protecting against the effects of teeth grinding (bruxism). While the need for an oral appliance remains, the presence of a denture requires special consideration to ensure the appliance is effective and safe. The goal is to protect the prosthetic, surrounding tissues, and any remaining natural teeth from undue stress or trauma.
Professional Guidance for Appliance Use
Using a mouthguard with a denture requires guidance from a dental professional, such as a dentist or prosthodontist. They must first assess the specific type of denture, whether it is a partial or a full prosthetic, and examine the underlying gum tissue and the density of the alveolar ridge. The alveolar ridge is the bone structure that supports the denture. This assessment ensures the oral appliance will not place uneven pressure on these foundational structures. A proper examination confirms the current stability of the denture and identifies any areas of potential irritation before an appliance is introduced. For individuals with partial dentures, the mouthguard must be specifically designed to protect both the prosthetic and the remaining natural teeth from damage.
Suitability of Different Mouthguard Types
The success of wearing a mouthguard with dentures depends heavily on choosing the correct type of appliance. Custom-made mouthguards are overwhelmingly recommended for denture wearers because they are fabricated from precise molds of your mouth and existing dental work. This method ensures a snug fit that stabilizes the denture and evenly distributes any impact or clenching force across the gum tissue and jawbone. The precision fit of a custom guard is designed to protect the delicate alveolar ridge, which can deteriorate over time if subjected to constant, unequal pressure.
The second category, boil-and-bite mouthguards, are generally problematic when used over dentures. These appliances are made from a thermoplastic material that is softened in hot water and then molded by biting down. However, this process rarely achieves the uniform thickness and retention necessary to safely secure a denture, potentially leading to movement and uneven pressure points. While they are a cheaper and readily available option, the risk of damage to the acrylic denture material or the underlying tissue is significantly higher.
Stock mouthguards, the third and least suitable option, come pre-formed and are typically one-size-fits-most. These devices offer minimal to no retention, making them bulky, uncomfortable, and ineffective for stabilizing a denture. The lack of a secure fit means a stock guard could easily be dislodged during impact or intense clenching, offering inadequate protection and even posing a choking hazard. For individuals with dentures, a non-custom solution should be used only as a temporary measure until a custom-fitted appliance can be obtained.
Consequences of Ill-Fitting Protection
Wearing a mouthguard that does not fit correctly over a denture can lead to several negative health outcomes. A poorly sized appliance can exacerbate the normal wear and tear on the denture, potentially causing the acrylic material to crack or warp under pressure. This damage means costly repairs or replacement of the prosthetic will be necessary sooner than expected.
The constant friction from a shifting mouthguard irritates the underlying soft tissues, often leading to inflammation and painful sore spots. Chronic irritation can progress to a fungal infection known as denture stomatitis, characterized by redness and tenderness beneath the denture base.
Furthermore, an ill-fitting guard that applies uneven force accelerates the natural process of bone resorption in the jaw. This rapid shrinkage compromises the long-term stability of the denture and alters the facial structure. If used during sports, a loose appliance can cause the denture to shift during impact, potentially lacerating the gums or soft tissues of the mouth.