Dentures are removable devices, available as full sets for an entire arch or partial sets. These prosthetic appliances restore the ability to chew, speak clearly, and support facial structure. Although dentures are a durable solution for tooth loss, they are not meant to be worn continuously. A consistent daily routine is necessary for maintaining oral health and protecting the delicate tissues in the mouth.
Impact on Jawbone and Gum Tissue
Wearing a denture applies constant pressure to the underlying gum tissue and jawbone. Loss of teeth stops stimulation of the jawbone, initiating alveolar bone resorption, which causes the bone structure to gradually shrink in volume and density.
Wearing dentures 24 hours a day accelerates this shrinkage because continuous pressure interferes with the bone’s recovery and blood flow. As the bone recedes, the gum tissue loses its foundation and develops chronic irritation.
This irritation often manifests as painful pressure spots, ulcerations, stomatitis, or hyperplastic changes where the gum grows excessively. Giving the gums a daily rest allows for the re-establishment of normal circulation and tissue health, mitigating these adverse anatomical changes.
Changes in Denture Fit and Function
The continuous anatomical changes in the jawbone and gum tissue directly affect the prosthetic appliance. As the alveolar ridge resorbs, the contour of the mouth changes, causing the rigid plastic base of the denture to become loose and unstable.
A poorly fitting denture loses the seal and suction necessary for secure placement, leading to instability. Instability makes chewing difficult and inefficient, often causing pain and limiting diet. Movement of a loose denture can also impede speech clarity, causing clicking sounds or lisping.
The anatomical changes necessitate frequent adjustments over time. Dentists must perform procedures like relining or rebasing to restore the fit. Inconsistent wear contributes to this cycle, leading to greater long-term costs for maintenance or eventual replacement.
Oral Health Risks and Infections
Failing to remove a denture for cleaning and tissue rest creates an ideal environment for harmful microorganisms. The space between the denture base and the oral mucosa is dark, warm, and moist, trapping food debris and plaque that serve as nutrients for pathogens.
This lack of tissue exposure to air and saliva compounds the hygiene problem. A common consequence is Denture Stomatitis, an inflammatory condition caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans. It leads to redness, swelling, and burning sensations.
The persistent presence of microbes can also contribute to halitosis. Wearing dentures during sleep may increase the risk of respiratory issues, including pneumonia, as the denture surface can harbor bacteria that may be inhaled. Providing a daily period of rest and thorough cleaning reduces the microbial load, protecting both oral and systemic health.
Recommended Wearing Schedule and Oral Rest
The recommended practice is to remove dentures for a minimum of six to eight hours every 24-hour period. This rest period gives the underlying soft tissues a complete break from the pressure and coverage of the appliance, and is most practical overnight while sleeping.
Removing the denture restores normal circulation to the gums and allows the mucous membranes to recover from mechanical stress. This nightly break promotes natural cleansing and lubrication provided by saliva, preventing chronic inflammation.
The denture should be brushed daily to remove plaque and then submerged in water or a mild soaking solution to prevent drying. Allowing the denture to dry can cause it to warp or become brittle, compromising its fit.