Can I Leave My Dentures in While Sleeping?

For most denture wearers, it is best to remove removable dentures before going to bed. Taking them out allows your gums and other oral tissues to recover and gives you time to clean your mouth and dentures properly. Sleeping with dentures can trap bacteria and moisture against the gums, potentially increasing the risk of irritation, soreness, and oral infections.

If you are considering dentures in Woodbridge, your dentist can explain the best care routine for your specific appliance and oral health needs. After removing your dentures, clean them as recommended and keep them in a safe soaking solution or container overnight. If your dentist has advised you to wear them while sleeping for a specific reason, follow their instructions. 

Why Is Sleeping With Dentures Usually Discouraged?

Dentures sit directly against the gums and other oral tissues for many hours. Continuous wear can contribute to irritation and may increase the risk of denture stomatitis, an inflammation of the tissue beneath a denture. Research also links overnight wear with conditions that can encourage Candida, a type of yeast, to grow around the denture.

Removing dentures at night also gives you a chance to clean areas that the appliance covers during the day. Your gums, tongue, palate, and any remaining natural teeth still need daily care.

What Are the Benefits of Removing Dentures at Night?

Taking your dentures out before sleep can help you:

• Give your gums and other covered tissues a break from pressure.
• Reduce the chance of ongoing soreness or irritation.
• Clean the denture and your mouth separately and more thoroughly.
• Reduce conditions associated with denture-related inflammation.

This routine is especially worth discussing with a dentist if you have diabetes, reduced immunity, frequent mouth infections, or other factors that may affect your oral health. Individual advice can vary.

How Should I Store My Dentures Overnight?

Start by removing and gently cleaning your dentures. Use a soft denture brush and a denture cleanser or mild soap as directed. Regular toothpaste can be too abrasive for certain denture materials and may scratch their surfaces.

After cleaning, store the dentures according to your dentist’s instructions. Many removable dentures should remain moist, often in cool water or a suitable soaking solution. Never use hot or boiling water because heat can distort the denture. If you use a soaking product, follow its instructions carefully and rinse the dentures before putting them back in your mouth.

Remember to clean your mouth as well. Brush any natural teeth with fluoride toothpaste and gently clean your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush.

Are There Times When You Should Sleep With Dentures?

There can be exceptions. People who have just received immediate dentures after tooth removal may be instructed to keep them in overnight for the first night or for another short period. This can depend on the procedure and the dentist’s instructions.

If you have recently received dentures, follow the instructions provided by your dental professional rather than relying on general advice. Once the initial period has passed, nighttime removal is usually recommended.

When Should You Have Your Dentures Checked?

See a dentist if your dentures cause persistent pain, sores, redness, swelling, slipping, clicking, or difficulty eating or speaking. A change in fit may occur as your mouth naturally changes over time. Loose dentures can rub against the tissues and irritate them.

Do not try to reshape, repair, or adjust dentures yourself. A dental professional can check the fit and decide whether an adjustment, relining, or replacement is appropriate.

Expert Advice for Denture Care 

If you have questions about wearing, cleaning, or storing your dentures, Pine Seven Dental Centre can help. Our team can give you advice based on your oral health and the fit of your dentures.

Looking for a dental clinic in Woodbridge? Contact us to discuss your concerns and book a dental check-up.

FAQs

Can I leave my dentures in for one night?

If you accidentally sleep with them in once, remove and clean them when you wake up. Regular overnight wear is generally not recommended unless your dentist has specifically advised it.

Should I sleep with new dentures?

Sometimes, but only when your dentist instructs you to. Immediate dentures may need to remain in overnight, briefly after tooth extraction. Follow the instructions provided for your specific treatment.

What should I do if my dentures hurt at night?

Take out your dentures and see a dentist if the pain persists. Ongoing soreness may be caused by irritation, an infection, or dentures that no longer fit well.

Where can I get help with denture problems?

A dental clinic near you can assess uncomfortable, loose, or damaged dentures and explain the appropriate next step.