Many older people wear their dentures day and night for convenience. It is usually better to take them out to sleep so the gums can rest, and to store them properly to keep them clean and lasting.
- Removable dentures are usually best taken out to sleep so the gums can rest and inflammation and fungal infection are reduced.
- Rinse the denture clean, then soak in clean water or a solution made for dentures, never hot water.
- Do not let the denture dry out in the air for long, as it may warp or crack.
- Sore, ulcerated gums or a loose denture need a dental visit rather than self-adjustment.
A removable denture presses on the gums when eating and also at rest. Wearing it all day and night leaves the gums no time to rest, so they tend to become sore and swollen and are harder to keep clean.
Why is it usually better to remove dentures to sleep?
- The gums rest and blood circulates better, so there is less swelling and soreness.
- It lowers the risk of gum inflammation and fungal infection under the denture from a closed, moist environment all night.
- The denture and the lining of the mouth are easier to clean.
- It avoids the denture shifting, or being swallowed by accident, during deep sleep.
In some cases the dentist may advise differently, for example a temporary denture after an extraction. Follow the instructions of the dentist who made your denture.
How to store dentures overnight
- Rinse the denture clean with a soft brush and water, and do not use abrasive toothpaste.
- Soak it in a glass of clean water or a soaking solution made for dentures, following the instructions on the pack.
- Do not use hot water, which can warp the denture.
- Do not leave it to dry out in the air for long, as it may warp or crack.
- Keep the glass up high, out of reach of small children and pets.
Caring for the mouth once the denture is out
Before bed, gently wipe the gums, palate and tongue with gauze or a soft brush and rinse clean. See also how to care for a removable denture.
When should you see a dentist?
- Gums are sore, red or ulcerated where the denture presses. See what to do about a loose denture and sore gums.
- The denture is loose, or drops when you talk or chew.
- There are white patches, soreness in the mouth, or the denture has cracked or chipped.
If the denture no longer fits, you can review other options in removable denture or implant. You can visit in person during working hours at 266A - 268, Đường 3 Tháng 2, Phường Hòa Hưng, Ho Chi Minh City, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 (Zalo 082.299.3377) to ask about quieter hours.
Frequently asked questions
Is it harmful to wear dentures all night?
Wearing them continuously leaves the gums no rest, so they tend to become sore, inflamed and prone to fungal infection. It is usually better to take them out to sleep unless the dentist says otherwise.
What should I soak dentures in overnight?
You can soak them in a glass of clean water or a soaking solution made for dentures, following the pack instructions. Do not use hot water and do not leave them to dry out in the air.
Should I adjust a loose denture myself?
No. See the dentist to have it checked, adjusted or remade to fit.