Denture sores are areas of irritation or ulcers that develop on the gums, inner cheeks, or roof of the mouth where dentures make contact. They commonly arise when dentures do not fit properly or during the adjustment period for new dental prosthetics. Addressing denture sores promptly is important for comfort and oral health, as they can cause significant discomfort and interfere with eating and speaking.
Immediate Relief and Healing at Home
Temporarily removing your dentures provides immediate relief, allowing the irritated gum tissues to rest and begin healing. Giving your gums a break from the constant pressure of dentures, ideally for several hours or overnight, promotes tissue recovery and better blood circulation.
Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water offers a simple and effective way to soothe sore areas. Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and swish gently for 30 seconds, repeating several times daily. This reduces inflammation and maintains cleanliness.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is also beneficial. Gently brush your gums with a soft toothbrush. Clean your dentures daily using a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser. Applying over-the-counter topical gels containing benzocaine directly to the sore spots provides temporary numbing relief. Follow product instructions.
Adjusting your diet to include soft, easy-to-chew foods minimizes further irritation to the sores. Opt for items like soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, eggs, or well-cooked vegetables. Avoiding hard, crunchy, sticky, or overly spicy and acidic foods can prevent worsening the discomfort and allow the tissues to heal more readily.
Preventing Future Sores
Preventing denture sores involves consistent and proper denture care. Daily cleaning of your dentures is important; use a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner to remove food particles and bacterial buildup. This keeps the denture surfaces clean and reduces the risk of irritation.
Soaking your dentures overnight in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water is also a beneficial practice. This keeps the prosthetic moist, maintains its shape, and sanitizes it by eliminating accumulated bacteria. Rinse your dentures thoroughly before reinserting them.
Removing your dentures each night before bed is important for the health of your gums. This allows the gum tissues to rest from the continuous pressure exerted by dentures, promoting adequate blood circulation and tissue recovery. Nightly removal also helps to reduce the environment conducive to bacterial and fungal growth, lowering the risk of infections.
Regular dental check-ups are key to preventing recurring sores. Dentists can assess the fit of your dentures, which can change over time. Professional adjustments or relining of dentures ensure they fit securely without causing excessive friction or pressure points on your gums.
Maintaining overall oral hygiene, beyond just denture care, also contributes to prevention. Gently cleaning your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth with a soft toothbrush every morning helps to remove bacteria and stimulate blood flow in the mouth. This promotes a healthier oral environment and reduces denture sores.
When to See a Dentist
While many denture sores can be managed at home, certain signs mean you should see a dentist. You should consult a dentist if sores persist for more than a few days, despite home care.
See a dentist if sores worsen, become significantly more painful, or show no improvement. Look for signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, the presence of pus, or unusual odors from the mouth or dentures. White patches could suggest a fungal infection, such as denture stomatitis, requiring professional treatment.
Difficulty eating or speaking due to sores is another important reason to see a dentist, as this interferes with daily life. If dentures feel noticeably loose or uncomfortable, causing consistent rubbing and irritation, a dentist can assess whether adjustments, relining, or even a new prosthetic is necessary for a proper fit and to prevent future issues.