Gum pain while wearing dentures is a common issue affecting many users of these prosthetic devices. Dentures replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. While they offer significant benefits, the soft tissues of the mouth are not naturally meant to bear the full force of chewing, which often leads to discomfort. This irritation signals an underlying issue that requires attention.
Why Dentures Cause Gum Pain
Pain from dentures frequently stems from mechanical stress or biological reactions. The most frequent mechanical cause is an improper or changed fit. Over time, the jawbone underneath the denture shrinks through alveolar bone resorption because tooth roots no longer stimulate the bone. This natural change causes a once well-fitting denture to become loose and unstable, leading to movement and friction.
As the denture shifts, it creates concentrated pressure rather than distributing force evenly across the gums. This uneven pressure results in localized sore spots, manifesting as painful red areas or small ulcers where the denture presses too hard. Another mechanical factor involves worn or damaged denture material developing sharp edges or cracks that irritate the oral mucosa.
Biological causes often involve denture stomatitis, a common oral fungal infection. This inflammation is caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans. Poor hygiene or continuous wear creates a warm, moist environment conducive to fungal proliferation, leading to redness, swelling, and a burning sensation. Some individuals may also experience an allergic reaction to the acrylic or resin material, which presents as generalized inflammation and discomfort.
Immediate Steps for Temporary Relief
Several immediate steps can provide temporary relief from gum pain. The most direct action is to remove the dentures immediately to allow the irritated soft tissues to rest and recover from constant pressure and friction. Allowing the gums to breathe helps reduce swelling and soreness.
Rinsing the mouth several times a day with a warm saline solution can help soothe inflamed tissues and promote healing. A simple mixture of about one teaspoon of salt dissolved in warm water creates a gentle wash that cleanses the area and reduces inflammation. For localized and intense pain, over-the-counter topical pain relief gels containing benzocaine can be applied directly to the sore spots.
Switching to a diet of soft foods, such as mashed vegetables and soups, reduces the pressure exerted on the gums during chewing. Avoiding hard, sticky, or crunchy foods prevents further trauma to sensitive areas. These home measures are not a substitute for a professional assessment.
Professional Solutions and Adjustments
To resolve denture pain, a dentist or prosthodontist must correct the underlying mechanical or biological issues. The most common solution for ill-fitting dentures is relining, which involves adding new base material to the denture’s tissue surface to restore the fit to the current gum ridge contour. A soft reline uses a pliable material to cushion the gums temporarily, while a hard reline uses durable acrylic for long-term restoration.
For localized pressure points or sharp edges, a dentist can perform a minor adjustment by trimming or smoothing the irritating areas. This precise modification is often guided by pressure-indicating paste, which identifies the exact spots where the appliance presses too firmly. This process ensures biting forces are distributed evenly across the gum surface.
If the denture is severely worn, cracked, or has been relined multiple times due to extensive bone resorption, replacement with a new appliance may be the most effective course of action. New dentures accommodate the current jaw shape and provide superior stability and comfort. When denture stomatitis is the cause, professional treatment involves prescribing antifungal medications, such as topical creams or oral rinses, alongside improving denture hygiene.
Preventing Future Pain
Prevention of denture pain relies on establishing a consistent maintenance routine. Proper daily cleaning is necessary to prevent the accumulation of pathogens and fungi. This involves brushing the denture with a specialized non-abrasive cleanser and a soft-bristled brush, followed by soaking in an approved denture cleaning solution.
It is important to remove the dentures every night to allow the gum tissues to recover from constant pressure. Soaking the appliance overnight in a cleaning solution cleans it thoroughly and gives the oral mucosa a necessary period of rest. Continuous wear is a significant contributing factor to irritation and fungal infection.
Regular check-ups with a dental professional are necessary to monitor the health of the oral tissues and the fit of the appliance. Dentists can detect early signs of bone resorption and make minor adjustments or recommend a reline before significant discomfort develops. These routine visits ensure the longevity and comfort of the prosthetic device.