Reasons to Soak Your Dentures at Night

No one wants to be caught without their teeth, but you shouldn’t sleep with your dentures in your mouth. Your mouth is a hotspot for oral bacteria, especially at night. Sleeping with your dentures won’t just lead to unpleasant odors. It can affect your oral health and overall wellness. Not to mention, your dentures may need to be replaced sooner. Here’s why you should take your dentures out and put them in an overnight soaking solution before heading to bed. 

1. Your Gums Need a Break

Your dentures restrict blood circulation during the day. If your gums aren’t allowed to recuperate, they can become red and inflamed. Sores can occur that can increase your risk of infections. Placing your dentures in an overnight soaking solution will keep them safe and moist while giving your soft tissues the break they need.

2. Brushing Isn’t Enough

Although your dentures can’t get cavities, you must still brush them. While brushing will keep your new chompers looking their best, it’s not enough. Your dentures are porous, which means there are small holes that can trap food residue, plaque, and bacteria. No amount of brushing can clean the pores properly. A soaking solution is the only way to kill germs hiding in hard-to-reach places. Soaking your pearly whites will kill 99.9% of germs.

3. Dirty Dentures Can Harm Your Health

If your dentures aren’t disinfected daily, it can lead to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Not only can this cause your dentures to smell, but it can increase your risk of infections. According to a U.K.-based study, dentures that aren’t cleaned properly are linked to pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses.

4. Promote the Lifespan of Your Denture

Dentures can last for 5-7 years before needing to be replaced, but many factors affect their lifespan. Your cleaning routine can influence your dentures’ life expectancy. Oral bacteria can damage your prosthetic over time. As a result, you’ll need replacements sooner.

Get the Most from Your Investment

Dentures are a big investment. You can ensure they last for years while supporting a healthy mouth and body. Besides soaking your dentures every night, keep them clean. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and antibacterial hand soap or dishwashing liquid to clean them after eating and before calling it a night. 

Visit your dentist regularly for a checkup. They’ll keep your mouth healthy and reline your dentures as needed to ensure your new smile thrives for years. 

About Dr. Steven Branberg

Dr. Branberg earned his dental degree at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry and achieved his Certificate in Prosthodontics. He remains current with the latest innovations in dentistry, like dental implants. He is qualified for both the surgical placement and restoration of dental implants. Request an appointment through his website or call (817) 518-9958.