How Can You Get Rid of Denture Sores?

Dentures are designed to be as comfortable as possible so that you can use them to bite, chew, speak, and smile without issue on a daily basis. However, under certain circumstances, your restoration might cause sores to form on your gums. Fortunately, you can put a stop to this kind of discomfort; to do so, you need to be familiar with what causes denture sores to form and what remedies are available for getting rid of them.

What Causes Denture Sores?

Often, denture sores result from a prosthetic that doesn’t fit properly. Dentures put a certain amount of pressure on your gums; if they don’t fit, some areas will be exposed to more pressure than others, leading to irritation and discomfort.

Another possible cause of denture sores is poor oral hygiene. Food particles can sometimes become trapped in the space between your gums and dentures, attracting harmful bacteria that can cause inflammation.

What Can You Do to Treat Denture Sores?

If your sores are caused by dentures that don’t fit properly, one of the most important steps to take is to have them adjusted or refitted. This will help ensure that the pressure from your prosthetic teeth is correctly distributed along your gums, thus reducing discomfort.

Of course, you’ll want to take steps to treat the sores that you already have. Some possible remedies include:

• Using over-the-counter topical anesthetics to numb your gums.
• Rinsing with salt water multiple times a day, which can speed up the healing process in your mouth.
• Taking acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or other over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Remembering to take your dentures out before you go to bed every night so that your gums can rest.
• Cleaning your dentures regularly to prevent the buildup of food particles and bacteria.

Of course, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional who can give you advice tailored to your specific situation. Be sure to talk to your dentist to see what they suggest when it comes to dealing with denture sores.

What Steps Can You Take to Prevent Denture Sores?

While denture sores can be treated, it’s always preferable to avoid them altogether when you can. Below are a few preventive measures that all denture wearers should keep in mind:

• When you first get new dentures, stick to soft foods at first. This makes it less likely that problems will occur while you’re adjusting to your new teeth.
• Use a denture adhesive to stop your restoration from moving around on your gums.
• Stay away from acidic foods and beverages, as they can contribute to irritation of the gums.
• Get in touch with your dentist right away if you think your dentures don’t fit properly.

If you’re proactive about preventing denture sores as well as having them treated if they do happen to occur, you can enjoy life with your new teeth while taking care of your gums.

About the Author

Dr. Philip A. Lisk has spent over 20 years improving the oral health of his patients in North Raleigh. He belongs to the American Dental Association as well as the North Carolina Dental Society. He offers dentures as a cost-effective tooth replacement solution, and he’ll always take the time to make sure your new teeth are fitted properly. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Lisk, visit his website or call (919) 870-6892.