Mouth sores from dentures are a common concern. These irritations can cause discomfort, disrupting daily activities like eating and speaking. While frequent for denture wearers, especially when adjusting to a new prosthetic, they are treatable and preventable. Promptly addressing these issues helps maintain oral health and comfort.
Common Causes of Denture Sores
Denture sores often arise from factors related to prosthetic fit. Ill-fitting dentures, whether too loose or too tight, cause rubbing and pressure against the gums. This friction leads to irritation and painful lesions. Even if dentures initially fit well, changes in jawbone structure and gum tissue over time can alter their fit, leading to discomfort and sores.
Poor denture hygiene also contributes to sores. Inadequate cleaning allows bacteria and fungi, like Candida albicans, to accumulate on the denture surface. This buildup can lead to infections such as denture stomatitis, characterized by redness and inflammation. Trapped food particles beneath dentures can also irritate gums and promote bacterial growth, increasing sore risk.
New dentures often cause initial irritation as the mouth adjusts. Dry mouth (xerostomia) can also increase friction between the denture and oral tissues, making the mouth more susceptible to sores. Allergic reactions to denture materials, such as acrylic resins, can cause redness, itching, or a burning sensation.
Effective Home Remedies for Healing
For minor denture sores, home remedies can alleviate discomfort and promote healing. Removing dentures for extended periods, especially overnight, allows gums to rest and receive air exposure.
Warm salt water rinses soothe inflammation and support healing. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt into warm water and swish multiple times daily to reduce swelling and clean the area. For temporary pain relief, over-the-counter options are available. Topical gels with benzocaine can numb sore spots, providing quick comfort (use cautiously). Oral pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also manage discomfort and reduce inflammation.
Adjusting dietary habits can prevent further irritation. Focus on soft, bland foods, avoiding crunchy, acidic, spicy, or hot items to minimize discomfort during healing. Maintain gentle oral hygiene; carefully cleaning the mouth and gums with a soft toothbrush prevents bacterial buildup without aggravating sores.
Applying a cold compress to the cheek or sucking on ice chips can reduce swelling and numb the area. Some find relief from natural soothers like aloe vera, which offers soothing and antibacterial properties.
When to Consult Your Dentist
While many denture sores respond to home remedies, certain signs indicate the need for professional dental evaluation. Consult a dentist if sores persist for over 7 to 10 days without healing, as this may signal an underlying issue. Severe pain or discomfort not controlled by home remedies also warrants a dental visit.
Signs of infection, such as increased swelling, redness, pus, or fever, require immediate professional attention. Unexplained bleeding from sores or difficulty eating and speaking should also prompt a consultation. If sores frequently recur despite diligent home care, or if there are unusual changes like new lumps, bumps, or discolorations, a dentist can diagnose the cause.
A dentist can determine the root cause of sores, adjust ill-fitting dentures, prescribe medications like antifungals for thrush, or recommend further treatment to ensure oral health and comfort.
Preventing Future Sores
Preventing denture-related mouth sores involves consistent care of both dentures and oral tissues. Daily cleaning of dentures removes plaque and food particles. Brush them with a denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner. Soaking dentures in a cleaning solution, following instructions, helps sanitize them. Thoroughly rinse dentures before reinsertion to remove any cleaning solution residue.
Maintain good oral hygiene for the mouth itself. Gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth should be cleaned daily with a soft toothbrush. Regularly removing dentures at night allows oral tissues to rest and be exposed to air, which supports tissue health and helps prevent inflammation and infections.
Regular dental check-ups are important for denture wearers. These visits allow a dentist to assess denture fit, make adjustments, reline, or rebase them as the mouth changes. Dentists also perform oral cancer screenings, an important aspect of overall oral health. Staying well-hydrated supports saliva production, which keeps the mouth moist and reduces friction, contributing to overall oral health.