After a long, exhausting day, you finally climb into bed, ready to knock out for the night. Right before you drift off to sleep, you briefly jolt awake as you remember that your dentures are still in your mouth! As tempting as it can be to simply fall asleep while still wearing your dentures in North Grafton, it’s important to always take them out before bed. Here are four reasons why it’s best to let your dentures soak overnight.
The Pores of Acrylic Dentures Can Get Dirty Fast
Acrylic is the material most commonly used to fabricate the pink base of dentures. It may look solid, but acrylic is actually full of microscopic pores that bacteria can easily enter. The more bacteria accumulate in the pores of your dentures, the more likely you are to develop an infection in your mouth, such as gum disease.
Bacteria in Your Mouth Increase as You Age
The pores in dentures aren’t the only thing that can increase the risk of gum disease. The population of bacteria in your mouth constantly grows as you get older and are exposed to more pathogens over the course of your life.
You’re also likely to have less saliva as you age, which could be the result of the natural aging process, certain medications, or the dentures themselves. Saliva is your mouth’s first line of defense against harmful bacteria. To minimize the risk of infection, you’ll want to keep your mouth as clean as possible, and that includes soaking your dentures overnight.
Soaking Is an Effective Way of Cleaning Dentures
Brushing your dentures every day is important for removing food debris and bacteria that may be lingering on the surface. However, it’s not enough to target the pores that harbor bacteria. That’s where soaking comes in. Let your prosthetic soak in a glass of denture cleanser, ideally one that has been recommended by your dentist in North Grafton. You could also soak them in cold or room-temperature water, but avoid hot water – it could cause your denture’s shape to warp.
Your Gums Need a Break
It’s not healthy for your gums and jawbone to bear the force of supporting your dentures all day. That’s why your mouth might feel sore when nighttime rolls around. Luckily, soaking dentures overnight kills two birds with one stone – it keeps your dentures clean, and it gives your gums some much-needed rest.
If you want your dentures to last as long as possible, it’s important to know how to take good care of them. Soaking them overnight is one of the easiest ways to ensure you get several years’ worth of bright, healthy smiles!
About the Authors
Dr. Tina Theroux leads the team at Theroux Dental Associates, where she aims to improve patients’ lives through state-of-the-art dental care and unmatched friendly service. Ultimately, her goal is to give patients smiles they’re proud to show off! She’s also happy to provide guidance on caring for dentures in North Grafton at home, including the proper way to soak them. For more tips on denture maintenance, contact her practice at 508-839-2262.