Dentures provide a functional and aesthetic solution for replacing missing teeth, but many people experience discomfort while wearing them. While a brief adjustment period is normal when first receiving new prosthetics, persistent, sharp, or burning pain signals an underlying issue requiring attention. Causes range from mechanical errors in the device’s fit to biological changes within the mouth. Understanding the specific source of the pain is the first step toward finding relief and restoring comfort.
Fit and Pressure Point Discomfort
Discomfort often stems from mechanical issues where the rigid plastic denture interacts with the delicate, soft tissues of the mouth. Because the gum ridge and underlying bone structure change over time, the denture material can lead to misalignment. This mismatch results in specific areas of concentrated force known as pressure points or sore spots.
Pressure points occur when the denture base puts uneven downward force on the gum tissue, causing localized inflammation and pain. A loose denture can shift during speaking or chewing, leading to constant friction and rubbing against the gums. This abrasion easily creates painful sores or blisters.
If the device base has become rough, chipped, or cracked, the sharp edges can irritate the tissue, requiring repair or replacement. Addressing these mechanical irritations through professional adjustment, often involving a process called relining, is the fastest way to alleviate pain caused by improper fit.
Underlying Oral Health and Tissue Changes
Pain that develops gradually is often related to biological changes in the jaw structure. The most significant change is jawbone resorption, the natural shrinkage of the jawbone after tooth loss. This loss of bone volume alters the contour of the gum ridge, causing the denture to loosen and press unevenly on the remaining tissue.
This instability leads to increased movement and discomfort during function, and allows food debris to become trapped under the plate.
Another source of discomfort is xerostomia, or chronic dry mouth, where a lack of saliva eliminates the natural cushion and lubrication between the denture and the gums. Without saliva, the device slips and rubs against the exposed tissue. Dry mouth also increases the risk of fungal infections, such as denture stomatitis, because saliva’s natural cleansing properties are absent.
Denture stomatitis, a type of oral thrush caused by the overgrowth of Candida fungus, creates burning pain and inflammation beneath the denture. This condition is characterized by redness and swelling of the tissue covered by the plate. It makes wearing the prosthetic uncomfortable and requires antifungal treatment from a dental professional.
Errors in Daily Denture Care
Many painful issues stem from maintenance habits that inadvertently damage the denture or irritate the oral tissue. A common mistake is wearing dentures constantly, including overnight, which prevents the gum tissue from resting. Soft tissues need periods of rest, usually six to eight hours daily, to allow for proper blood circulation and healing.
Improper cleaning contributes to discomfort by allowing plaque and calculus to build up on the denture surfaces. This hardened debris irritates the gum tissue, promoting inflammation. Inadequate hygiene also creates an environment conducive to the growth of bacteria and fungi, leading to infections like stomatitis.
Using abrasive cleaning agents, such as regular toothpaste or harsh household chemicals, can scratch the acrylic material of the prosthetic. These microscopic scratches create rough surfaces that increase friction against the gums and provide sheltered areas for bacteria to colonize. Therefore, specialized non-abrasive denture cleansers must be used to maintain a smooth surface.
When pain persists despite improved cleaning habits, professional intervention is necessary. Issues like advanced bone loss or fungal infections require a dentist to assess the fit and prescribe specific treatments. Ignoring persistent pain allows the underlying problem to worsen, potentially leading to severe tissue damage.