What happens if I wear my dentures all the time (never remove them overnight)?

Wearing your dentures 24/7 increases your risk of several complications: Increased gum irritation/inflammation due to continuous pressure and lack of tissue rest. Poor salivary hygiene and dry-mouth issues since restful salivary flow decreases at night. Higher risk of fungal infections like denture stomatitis when the denture stays moist and in contact for long periods. It’s best to remove dentures whenever sleeping (unless your dentist gives specific instructions otherwise) to give your oral tissues respite and reduce complications.

The Potential Risks and Complications of Dentures in Green Bay, WI

Our Green Bay Dentists Break Down the Risks and Complications of Dentures

For many, replacing missing teeth with dentures is a life-changing step toward restoring confidence and the ability to eat, speak, and smile with ease. However, like any significant dental procedure, it’s crucial to go in with your eyes wide open.

At our Green Bay dental practice, we believe informed patients are empowered patients. This guide will honestly break down the potential risks and complications of dentures, arming you with the knowledge you need for a healthier, more comfortable experience. We’ll also provide actionable solutions to keep you smiling brightly for years to come.

Contact Allouez Family Dental today by calling (920) 339-8980 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Daniel Fama or Dr. Kyle Whiteside. Conveniently located on Libal Street near Highway 172, we proudly serve patients from Abrams, Seymour, Denmark, Casco, and surrounding communities.

Denture Risks and Complications

Gum Irritation

Wearing dentures can cause gum irritation, particularly if they don’t fit properly or if they’re not properly cleaned. This can lead to soreness, redness, and inflammation in the gums, which can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to wear the dentures.

Mouth Infections

If dentures are not properly cleaned, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can lead to mouth infections. Poor hygiene can also cause bad breath, which can be embarrassing and socially isolating.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a common problem for denture wearers. This is because dentures can rub against the gums and irritate the salivary glands. A dry mouth can make it difficult to keep the dentures clean and can also lead to other problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease.

Difficulty Speaking and Eating

Dentures can feel bulky and uncomfortable, which can make it difficult to eat and speak properly. It may take some time to adjust to the new prosthesis, and some people may never fully adapt to wearing dentures.

Changes in Taste

Dentures can cover the taste buds on the roof of the mouth, which can make it difficult to taste food properly. Some people may also experience a metallic taste in their mouth due to the materials used to make the dentures.

Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a problem for denture wearers. This is because bacteria can grow on the dentures, especially if they aren’t cleaned properly.

Bone Loss

When teeth are missing, the jawbone can start to shrink over time. This can cause dentures to become loose and ill-fitting, which can lead to discomfort and difficulty eating. Bone loss can also affect the appearance of the face, causing a sunken or aged look.

Gum Disease

Dentures can trap food particles and bacteria, which can lead to gum disease if not properly cleaned. Denture wearers should clean their prostheses thoroughly after each meal and brush their gums and tongues to prevent gum disease.

Dentures Stomatitis

Denture stomatitis is a common fungal infection that occurs in the mouths of denture wearers. It’s caused by a buildup of bacteria and yeast on the dentures. Symptoms include redness, soreness, and white patches on the gums.

How to Prevent Denture Problems in Green Bay

Knowledge is power, but action is key. Here’s how you can proactively protect your health:

Master Proper Denture Care: Treat your dentures like your natural teeth. Brush them daily with a denture cleaner (not regular toothpaste, which can be abrasive) and soak them in a cleansing solution. Always rinse them thoroughly before placing them back in your mouth.
Don’t Neglect Your Mouth: Even with full dentures, your oral health isn’t just about the appliance. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and palate every morning before inserting your dentures to stimulate circulation and remove plaque.
Maintain a Healthy Diet for Healthy Bones: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports jawbone health, which is critical for denture stability.
Commit to Regular Dental Visits: Seeing your dentist regularly is perhaps the most critical step. We can spot issues like early bone loss or gum disease long before you can, and we ensure your dentures continue to fit properly through adjustments and relines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wearing your dentures 24/7 increases your risk of several complications:

Increased gum irritation/inflammation due to continuous pressure and lack of tissue rest.
Poor salivary hygiene and dry-mouth issues since restful salivary flow decreases at night.
Higher risk of fungal infections like denture stomatitis when the denture stays moist and in contact for long periods.

It’s best to remove dentures whenever sleeping (unless your dentist gives specific instructions otherwise) to give your oral tissues respite and reduce complications.

Yes. Partial dentures, which are used when you still have some natural teeth, carry additional considerations. Because they must coexist with your natural teeth, hygiene around the clasps and attachments is crucial to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Furthermore, the remaining natural teeth can face increased stress and plaque accumulation, so your dentist near Green Bay will monitor these carefully.

Technical complications such as framework fractures or retention loss are also somewhat more common with partial dentures. Therefore, whether you have full or partial dentures, proper care, adjustment, and regular check-ups are key.

Absolutely. Loose dentures are a common sign of bone resorption and a tell-tale sign that you need a denture adjustment or reline. We provide these services right here on Libal Street, helping patients from De Pere, Bellevue, and Howard achieve a secure, comfortable fit again.

Learn More About Dentures Today!

While dentures can provide many benefits, they do come with some risks. To minimize the risk of complications, it’s important to properly clean and care for your dentures and to see our Green Bay dentists regularly for checkups and adjustments.

If you experience any problems with your dentures, such as gum irritation, mouth infections, or difficulty speaking, be sure to contact Dr. Daniel Fama and Dr. Kyle Whiteside at (920) 339-8980 for advice and treatment. We proudly serve patients from Abrams, Seymour, Denmark, Casco, and surrounding communities.