Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues, restoring the ability to speak and chew comfortably. While they offer a practical solution for tooth loss, dental professionals generally advise against continuous wear, especially during sleep. This recommendation protects the health of the underlying oral tissues and maintains the longevity and fit of the device itself.
Understanding the Risks of Continuous Wear
Wearing a denture continuously places constant pressure on the gum tissues and underlying bone structure. This mechanical stress accelerates the breakdown of the alveolar bone, known as resorption. While bone loss is natural after tooth absence, continuous pressure speeds up this process, changing the jaw’s shape and causing the denture to fit poorly.
The warm, moist environment trapped beneath the denture provides an ideal breeding ground for microorganisms, particularly the fungus Candida albicans. Prolonged wear increases the risk of denture-related stomatitis, an inflammatory condition causing redness and swelling. The prosthetic also restricts the natural cleansing action of saliva, allowing plaque biofilm to accumulate. This accumulation leads to chronic irritation and the formation of painful pressure sores or ulcers on the gums.
The Critical Necessity of Nighttime Removal
Removing the denture daily, typically overnight, allows the pressure-bearing tissues in the mouth to recover. This rest period is necessary for blood circulation to return to the compressed gum tissues. The absence of the prosthetic allows the mouth’s natural defenses, including saliva, to wash the oral mucosa, preventing the overgrowth of bacteria and fungi.
Dentures must always be removed before sleep, allowing the underlying structures six to eight hours of rest. The only temporary exception involves immediate dentures, which are placed right after tooth extractions. During the initial healing phase, the immediate denture acts as a protective bandage to control bleeding and swelling, requiring continuous wear for the first 24 to 48 hours. After this brief, supervised interval, the regular nightly removal routine must begin to prevent long-term tissue damage.
Proper Cleaning and Storage Protocols
Daily Cleaning
When dentures are removed, proper maintenance is required for hygiene and structural integrity. Dentures must be cleaned daily to remove food debris, plaque, and microorganisms. This involves brushing all surfaces with a soft-bristle brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser or mild soap. Regular toothpaste must be avoided because its abrasive particles create microscopic scratches in the acrylic material, which become sites for bacterial colonization.
Storage and Rinsing
After cleaning, dentures must be stored correctly to prevent drying out, which can cause the acrylic base to warp. The most common storage method is placing them in a container filled with clean water or a denture soaking solution. Soaking keeps the prosthetic hydrated and aids in disinfection. Before reinserting, rinse the dentures thoroughly with water, especially if a chemical soaking solution was used. While the dentures are out, gently brush the gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth to stimulate circulation and remove residual plaque.