Denture Sores and How to Soothe Them

Are your gums swollen? Have you been experiencing increased oral sensitivity? Don’t wait for your discomfort to go away on its own, because if your mouth is sore, your dentures could be the problem. Keep reading to learn why and how you can alleviate your symptoms.

Why Your Dentures Might be Creating Sores

Unless your dentures are brand new, it’s possible that either they don’t fit or need a good cleaning.

It’s true that dentures are hand-crafted to fit your mouth. However, your dentures experience wear and tear as time goes on, and if you have partials, shifting teeth can bend them out of shape. Fortunately, your dentist might be able to adjust them. If not, they’ll simply give you a replacement set.

As for the cleaning possibility – yes, your dentures still need to be maintained, even though they’re fake! Bacteria can build on any surface, not just authentic enamel. Make sure you brush and floss your dentures thoroughly. This includes the adhesive underside. You’ll also want to keep your mouth pristine. “Any surface” means any surface. So give your tongue, gums, and inner cheeks a good scrub.

Why You Should Contact Your Dentist

Whether your dentures are ill-fitting or harboring irritating bacteria, you should contact your dentist. They’re the only ones that can properly repair your dentures, and they have professional-grade equipment for removing stubborn bacteria you might have missed.

If you still need convincing, think of it this way. You wouldn’t continue to wear shoes that don’t fit. Why? Because it’s uncomfortable and could harm your feet, of course! And why would you take your suit in for dry-cleaning? Because it’s a special material or has a pesky stain that you can’t get rid of on your own! It’s the same for your dentures. They have to be taken care of just like any other physical object.

What to Do While Waiting for Your Dental Appointment

Your dentist might be able to see you as soon as today. But if you find yourself in a pinch, here are some home remedies that can help relieve your discomfort:

• Rinse your mouth with bacteria-slowing saltwater or soothing sage tea
• Take ibuprofen, Tylenol, or another pain reliever
• Message numbing gel over your sore spots
• Don’t eat intense foods like spicy, sticky, or crunchy snacks
• Take care to eat slowly
• Remember to remove and soak your dentures at night to give your gums a break

Basically, you’ll want to be gentle. Let your gums take a sick day, so to speak, and give them plenty of medicine so they can recover faster. Just remember that while home remedies can be great, you still need to pay your dentist a visit for a long-term solution.

About the Author

Dr. John Moneyhun believes that part of quality dental care is helping patients feel comfortable during their visit. That means that if your denture care has been less than ideal, there’s no judgement! Dr. Moneyhun understands that maintaining your oral health isn’t always simple. That’s why he and the Parkside Dental team are here to help. To contact their office, just call 864-800-1691.