As dentistry continues to evolve, so do the treatments your dentist offers. One that has come a long way is dentures. Nowadays, they are customized to your mouth, making them more comfortable than ever before. However, if you switched to a new pair or are wearing this prosthetic for the first time, then you may have developed sores. Here’s why they happen and how to get rid of them.
What Causes Denture Sores?
Regardless of the oral appliance you have, your mouth will need to get adjusted to it. Dentures are no different, as your gums won’t be used to something sitting on them. You may notice them rubbing against these soft tissues, leading to irritation, which turns into sore spots. This can also happen if your prosthetic is ill-fitting, as pressure points can cause discomfort.
Not only that, but foods can also get stuck underneath your dentures. Tiny morsels can get trapped, causing bacteria to build up when they aren’t cleaned off. Popcorn, seeds, and nuts are common culprits, but regardless, this can increase your risk for a wide range of oral health issues.
Is There Anything I Can Do About Denture Sores?
With a couple of different reasons that can lead to sores, you may wonder what you can do to make sure your dentures stay comfortable. First, you should tackle what’s causing the problem. Whether that’s relining or brushing your prosthetic and your gums, this can fix the main issue. However, the painful spots will need time to heal, so here are some tips to get relief in the meantime:
- Rinse with warm saltwater to wash away harmful bacteria while reducing inflammation.
- Take pain relievers as directed on the bottle.
- Soak your dentures in a denture cleaner or water during the night.
Should I Visit My Dentist About My Denture Sores?
In most cases, you won’t need to visit your dentist about denture sores. They should go away on their own, but if you are worried about anything, then calling them doesn’t hurt. If you notice they are bigger than usual or get larger, last for two weeks or longer, have discoloration, or show signs of infection, then you should schedule a visit. Doing so can help make sure there are no serious issues that get in the way of your full smile.
In the end, follow the tips above to help give you relief from any spots that are causing you discomfort; that way, you can enjoy your restored grin for years to come.
About the Practice
At Geller Dentistry, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Benjamin Geller and Dr. Gloria Garcia-Geller. We are happy to help the Los Angeles community replace their missing teeth with reliable solutions like dentures. By making sure your prosthetic is customized out of high-quality materials, you can trust that it is comfortable and natural-looking. If you have sores that you want checked out, schedule an appointment or call our office at (323) 467-1472.