If you have suffered from extensive tooth loss, daily tasks that you once found simple can feel nearly impossible. The good news is that dentures are available to transform the appearance and function of the teeth. While they can make chewing your food, speaking clearly, and smiling with confidence much easier, dentures come with some downsides – like denture sores. Here are some steps that you can take to prevent and get rid of them.
What Causes Denture Sores?
There are several things that can cause denture sores. Here are some of the most common:
- New Dentures: When you first get new dentures, it can take some time for your mouth to adjust, leading to temporary irritation.
- Poorly Fitting Dentures: Dentures that are loose or don’t fit as they should rub against and cut into the gums, resulting in sores.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: When food particles are left behind, they get stuck between your gums and dentures. This can result in irritation and even infection in severe cases.
How to Get Rid of Denture Sores?
Various remedies can help to ease and reduce denture sores. Try the following methods:
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: These can help to reduce inflammation and discomfort as the sore spots are healing.
- Saltwater Rinses: Rinsing with warm salt water is commonly recommended for mouth sores. Just combine ¼ cup water with ¼ teaspoon of salt. Stir until it dissolves, then swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds and spit. This can be done up to four times a day.
- Excellent Oral Hygiene: When you have denture sores, excellent oral hygiene is a must to prevent infection. This means brushing your dentures as instructed and soaking them in a denture cleanser to kill bacteria. Dentures cannot get cavities, but they can collect plaque and harbor bacteria, resulting in irritation and a foul odor.
- Give Your Mouth a Break: Make sure that you take out your dentures every night before bed. This way, the sores have a chance to heal, and your mouth has the opportunity to rest.
- Take to Your Dentist: If your denture sores are becoming a frequent problem, you should let your dentist know. They could need a denture reline to help it fit more securely. In other cases, it may need to be refitted.
If you have concerns regarding denture sores, try using some of the tips listed above. You deserve a fully functional smile that doesn’t cause you discomfort.
About the Practice
At Crownridge Dental and Orthodontics, Dr. Christian A. Pham and Dr. Patricia A. Nuñez work together to treat patients in the San Antonio area. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. If you are struggling with denture sores, they would be happy to help. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (210) 538-7500.