How Many Hours Per Day Should You Wear Dentures?

New technologies and materials allow dentures to fit more comfortably than ever before, so you may never want to take them out. Not to mention, no one wants to get caught without their teeth. However, wearing your dentures all the time can mean bad news for your oral and general health. You will also need replacements sooner. Here’s how long you should be wearing your dentures each day to keep your mouth and body healthy.

Your Mouth Needs a Break

Dental professionals recommend removing your dentures for at least 6 to 8 hours every day to avoid common complications caused by overuse, like:

• Inflammation and Sores: Dentures restrict blood circulation to your gums, which can lead to sores and inflammation if the soft tissues aren’t given time to rest. You’ll have an increased risk of infections and sore gums can make it difficult to eat.
• Respiratory Illnesses: Oral infections can cause respiratory illnesses, like lung infections. Although you may not have any teeth, you can still be at risk of gum disease, which is linked to breathing problems.
• Bone Loss: Missing teeth cause your jawbone to shrink slowly. Wearing your dentures all the time can enhance the rate of bone loss, which will cause you to need adjustments and replacements sooner. It can also make you look years older than your real age.
• Infections: Your mouth is a great environment for bacteria growth because it is dark and moist. Bacteria can accumulate on your dentures and between the prosthetic and your gums, increasing your risk of infections.
• Denture Damage: Wearing your dentures too much can put unnecessary wear and tear on them, which can cause you to need replacements sooner. Oral bacteria can also damage your denture if they aren’t removed and cleaned regularly.

Take Your Dentures Out Nightly

Your dentist will instruct you to wear your dentures for 24 hours after getting them for the first time. After the first day, get in the habit of taking your dentures out before going to bed. 

Removing your teeth at night allows you to clean them well to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria to prolong their lifespan and prevent unwanted odors. After your dentures are out of your mouth, don’t forget to clean your gums, the inside of your cheeks, and your tongue to remove any harmful bacteria. 

Once you’ve cleaned your dentures, place them in an overnight soaking solution while you’re sleeping. This will keep them moist and kill bacteria dismissed when brushing. 

Your gums will be given the break they need to receive the necessary nutrients to stay healthy. You will also preserve your jawbone to maintain your facial structure and ensure your dentures fit comfortably for longer. 

Although you can’t wear your dentures nonstop, you can rest easy knowing your new smile will last for many years by giving your mouth a break.

About Dr. Steven Oshins

Dr. Oshins earned his dental degree from the University at Buffalo School of Dentistry and has regularly continued his education to provide up-to-date services, like restorative dentistry and dental implants. Dr. Oshins has the qualifications and experience to treat the most complex cases of tooth loss. Request an appointment through our website or call (518) 519-3977.