If you’re among the millions who wear dentures, you likely have questions about eating and daily activities. But what about bedtime? Can you sleep with dentures in?
While it is possible to sleep with dentures, taking them out before bedtime offers several advantages. Keep reading to better understand the benefits of giving your dentures a rest while you catch some sleep.
Are Dentures Safe to Sleep with?
Denture wearers often wonder if sleeping with their dentures is safe. While there’s no harm in doing so, there are some key points to consider for optimal oral health:
- Cleanliness Matters
Brush and rinse your dentures daily before going to bed to remove any food or bacteria that could cause issues if left overnight.
- Listen to Your Mouth
If you have sensitive gums or teeth, consider taking them out for a nightly rest.
- Comfort is Key
Sleeping with dentures might take some getting used to. Try wearing them for a few hours during the day first.
- Talk to Your Dentist
Your dentist can give you personalized advice based on your specific dental health.
What is the Risk of Sleeping with Dentures?
The following are the potential downsides of sleeping with dentures:
- Choking Hazard
If you wear your dentures while you sleep, there is an increased risk of them becoming loose. Loose dentures can become dislodged during sleep, increasing the risk of accidentally inhaling (aspirating) them. This can lead to serious health problems.
- Breakage Risk
When you sleep, your face is in constant contact with your pillow. This constant contact puts pressure on dentures, raising the chance of them cracking or breaking.
- Gum Irritation
Wearing dentures all the time can cause irritation in your gums, which can contribute to inflammation (gingivitis) or even fungal infections. Removing dentures at night allows your gums to rest and breathe.
How to Care for Your Dentures at Night?
Dentures can’t rewind time, but they can restore your confidence and let you smile brightly again. This is why it is important that you take good care of your dentures. Here’s how you can establish a nighttime routine that keeps your smile sparkling:
- Warm Water Bath
Fill your sink with lukewarm water. Roll a towel up to act as a soft cushion on the sink’s edge in case your dentures slip.
- Loosen the Grip (Optional)
Give your mouth a quick rinse with warm water. This will help soften any denture adhesive and make it easier to take your dentures out.
- Take Them Out
Start with the lower denture and then the upper one. Different dentures might require different techniques, so consult your dentist if you’re even slightly unsure.
- Rinse Away All the Food Bits
Give your dentures a quick rinse under running water to remove any loose food particles.
- Brushing Basics
Use a soft denture brush or a regular soft toothbrush. Clean them with water, denture paste, or non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Clean Your Mouth
Gargle with warm salt water, then use a clean washcloth to wipe your gums and the roof of your mouth. Rinse again with warm water. You can also gently brush your gums with a soft toothbrush, and if you have natural remaining teeth, brush them too.
- Soak it Up
Place your dentures in a denture cleaning solution or plain water overnight (never put your dentures in hot or boiling water).
In Summary
It is recommended that you remove your dentures before bed and soak them overnight to protect them and maintain healthy gums. Even if you wish to sleep with dentures in, make sure you’re using a good denture adhesive so that they don’t loosen throughout the night.
For more information or to receive new dentures, call Saifee Family Dentistry of Spring at (281) 350-5600. We’re ready to assist you!