Dealing with denture sores can be a real pain, literally. These tender areas can make eating, talking, and even smiling a challenge. But don’t worry! You don’t have to suffer through the discomfort. Let’s dive into what causes these uncomfortable spots, along with some simple yet effective remedies for getting rid of denture sores once and for all.
Common Causes of Denture Sores
Denture sores can be accounted for by a number of factors, including:
- Ill-fitting dentures: Dentures that don’t fit properly can create pressure points and rub against the gums, leading to soreness, irritation, and even ulceration. This is especially common if dentures are old and worn, or haven’t been adjusted after changes in your jawbone.
- Adjustment: Sores may occur in the first few weeks of getting a new denture as your gums adjust to the appliance.
- Poor oral hygiene: Accumulation of food particles and bacteria on the dentures, especially if they’re not cleaned properly, can irritate the gums and cause sores. This can also lead to denture stomatitis, a fungal infection that causes redness and inflammation under the denture.
- Allergies: Some people may experience allergic reactions to the materials used in dentures (e.g., acrylic, metal) or denture cleaners and adhesives, leading to inflammation and sores.
How to Treat Denture Sores
It’s difficult to eat, speak, and sleep when your mouth is in pain. In this section, we’ll go over some of the most common solutions to relieve and address denture sores.
Pain Relief
Although it won’t get rid of them, pain and inflammation in the gums can be alleviated by over-the-counter medication like acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Numbing gel, which can be applied directly to any sore spots, is also a good idea to pick up during your next trip to the pharmacy.
Saltwater Rinse
Rinsing with warm saltwater is a widely suggested remedy for many types of mouth sores, including those caused by dentures. It helps soothe irritation and supports the healing process. To make the rinse, mix 2 ounces of warm water with a quarter teaspoon of salt until fully dissolved. Swish the solution in your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. You can do this up to four times daily until the soreness subsides.
Give Your Mouth a Break
Be sure to remove your dentures each night before going to sleep to allow your mouth time to recover and to help any sore spots heal. While it’s important to wear your dentures during the day so your mouth can adjust to them, giving your gums a break from constant pressure overnight is just as important.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for preventing infections when you have denture sores. This includes cleaning your dentures as recommended and soaking them in a denture cleanser to eliminate bacteria. Although dentures don’t get cavities like natural teeth, they can still accumulate plaque and bacteria, leading to other oral health problems. Additionally, it’s important to wipe your gums with a damp washcloth. While these practices may not stop denture sores from appearing, they can help prevent them from worsening.
You should contact your dentist for denture sores if they are large, painful and persistent, or if you suspect an infection. Your dentist can determine if adjustments to your dentures are needed or if other treatment, like antibiotics, is necessary.
About the Practice
Experiencing sores caused by your dentures? Let the experts at Gruene Family Dental take care of the issue. Whether it’s a faulty device or the fit isn’t right, our team will determine what’s causing the problem and see that you leave the office smiling and satisfied. We use the most advanced dental technology in a home-like atmosphere where every patient is treated as a person. Call us today to schedule your appointment at our New Braunfels office at (830) 626-1111 or visit us online.