Have Dentures Rubbed Sores into Your Gums? Here’s How to Fight Back

When you first receive your dentures, they should fit remarkably well and become increasingly comfortable as you get used to them. However, your appliance may not fit as well as it once did after a few years, and this can lead to your restoration sliding about on your gum tissues. The friction this causes can result in painful sores that are vulnerable to infection, but this issue can be avoided or resolved with the proper measures. Here’s a brief guide to how you can prevent denture sores as well as how to treat them if they occur.

What Causes Denture Sores?

While dentures can be an excellent way to enjoy a beautiful and complete smile, they do not address the underlying issue of jawbone erosion caused by tooth loss. Without the stimulation the teeth provide during the chewing process, the jaw will atrophy and recede, changing the shape of the mouth over time. Eventually, a patient’s dentures may not fit as well due to the dental arches becoming smaller. In some cases, patients find that their appliances do not fit well due to several years’ wear and tear.

Denture sores are usually the result of a denture shifting about on the gum tissue, which can gradually work the gums’ protective skin open and cause uncomfortable sores. These wounds can become infected if they are not resolved, and this is more likely to happen if the patient does not practice proper oral hygiene and denture maintenance.

How Can I Prevent Denture Sores?

A few great ways to prevent denture sores include:

• Practicing excellent oral hygiene and denture maintenance according to your dentist’s instructions.
• Seeing your dentist at least twice a year for routine checkups even if you have no remaining natural teeth.
• Considering securing your dentures with dental implants that will hold them in place and allow them to exert maximum chewing power for decades if you practice excellent care and hygiene.

How Can I Treat Denture Sores?

A few ways to address denture sores include:

• Giving your mouth a break from wearing dentures for a few days.
• Rinsing your mouth with a solution of salt and water to kill bacteria, clear debris, and reduce inflammation.
• Using a store-bought oral analgesic for temporary relief.
• Experimenting with denture adhesives to help your appliance fit securely between adjustments.

If your denture sores do not respond to these remedies, it is probably best to contact your dentist to have your restoration relined or replaced.

Don’t let denture sores get in the way of you showing off your gorgeous smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best ways to keep your mouth healthy while wearing your appliance.

About the Practice

Dental Excellence Melbourne offers the most outstanding oral health services in town. Led by Drs. Cedric and Derek Chenet and Nishita Patel, the staff treats patients with exemplary courtesy and customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture care. If you are concerned about denture sores, contact the office online or dial (321) 255-0199.