New materials and technologies allow dentures to look and feel more realistic than ever before. Advanced technology is used to create an acrylic base to hold prosthetic teeth. It will sit on top of your gum tissue, relying on suction to stay in place. You can expect it to take a few days to get used to wearing new dentures. It’s not unusual for your gums to be a little sore, but it shouldn’t be an ongoing issue. Whether you have new dentures or have had the same set for years, don’t ignore inflammation or pain. Here’s what might be causing it and what you should do to stop the irritation.
Causes of Denture Sores and Discomfort
After you’ve adjusted to wearing dentures, your gums shouldn’t hurt. If you develop pain or inflammation, you might need to have your dentures adjusted. Losing even one tooth causes your jawbone to deteriorate. You can lose up to 25% of your jaw’s density within the first year, which will continue to decline as time passes.
Over time, the shape of your mouth and face will change. Your dentures won’t adapt to the changes, which can cause them to fit poorly. They can rub or cut your gums. Not only can this make it painful to wear your dentures or chew, but it also increases your risk of infections. Poor-fitting dentures are also linked to an increased risk of various health issues, like nutritional deficiencies, respiratory illness, and even some cancers.
The only way to restore a snug fit and stop the pain is by visiting your dentist. They can reline or replace your dentures.
Treating Denture Sores At Home
While you wait for your appointment, you can try a few home remedies to keep you comfortable:
- Use a Topical Anesthetic: A topical anesthetic containing benzocaine can numb your gums temporarily.
- Rinse with Salt Water: Rinse your mouth with salt water every few hours to reduce pain and inflammation. It’s also a natural antiseptic to kill bacteria.
- Use a Pain Reliever: Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Remove Your Dentures: Dentures restrict blood circulation to your gums. Removing them at night gives your soft tissues a break to receive nutrients to stay healthy. Always soak your denture in an overnight solution to neutralize bacteria missed by your toothbrush.
You don’t have to live with sore gums. Your dentist can provide the solution you need to stop slipping and irritation.
About Dr. Les Latner
Dr. Latner earned his dental degree from the Washington University School of Dental Medicine and has regularly continued his education in advanced services, like general and cosmetic dentistry. He is a member of many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. If your gums are sore from dentures, contact our office at (310) 907-7987 for an appointment.