Dentures are artificial teeth designed to replace missing teeth, whether you need to replace just a few or all of them. A well-crafted denture can provide a natural-looking smile that complements your remaining teeth, if you have any. Although it might seem convenient to wear your dentures all day and night, is it advisable? Continue reading to find out how long you can safely wear your dentures each day and the potential risks associated with wearing them for extended periods.
Is it OK to Wear Dentures 24/7?
You should wear your dentures for at least eight hours a day to allow your jawbone and gums to adjust and to prevent sore spots. While dentures can improve your appearance and comfort, wearing them all the time isn’t recommended due to potential issues such as:
- Unhealthy tissue – Wearing dentures all the time can trap moisture and food particles, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. This can result in gum disease, bad breath, and other oral health issues.
- Denture stomatitis – Denture stomatitis is inflammation and irritation of the soft tissues in your mouth where dentures sit. It can be caused by poor denture hygiene, poorly fitting dentures, or bacterial infections. Symptoms include redness, swelling, soreness, and a burning feeling that can make wearing dentures uncomfortable. In severe cases, it may lead to tooth loss and gum disease.
- Respiratory issues – Wearing your dentures while you sleep can raise your risk of respiratory infections such as colds and bronchitis. It also doubles your likelihood of developing pneumonia, which can be serious.
- Accelerated bone loss – Dentures can exert pressure on the bone ridges and gums that support them, potentially speeding up bone loss.
An Exception to the Rule
You can wear dentures all day and night for the first few nights after having teeth extracted. But after 72 hours, you should start a regular cleaning routine and remove your dentures while you sleep. Wearing them constantly initially helps with:
- Bleeding control – The pressure your dentures apply can help staunch bleeding.
- Swelling – It’s best to keep your dentures in for a few days after an extraction because swelling can make it hard to reinsert them if they are removed for too long.
- Bone conformity – Wearing your dentures all day for a few days after a tooth extraction helps the bone shape itself to fit the dentures.
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. George A. Hoop, the team at Total Dental Solutions for Adults in Fort Myers is dedicated to enhancing smiles across the city. They offer a friendly and welcoming environment in their office and are committed to helping patients achieve and maintain great oral health. If you’re considering dentures, they can help you determine if they’re the right choice for you. To schedule an appointment or learn more about porcelain veneers, visit their website for contact information for their two convenient offices.