It’s normal for changes to occur while wearing dentures. As the jawbone experiences resorption, these prosthetics will no longer fit comfortably but instead shift, fall out, and even irritate soft oral tissues inside the mouth. When this happens, you may wonder if there’s anything you can do to address denture sores. Fortunately, there is. Keep reading to learn what steps you can take and when you should see your dentist for help.
How Can You Treat Denture Sores?
If poorly fitting dentures are the reason for your bothersome sores, there are a few things you can do at home to achieve relief from the discomfort and encourage healing. They include:
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers and using numbing gel to minimize soreness and reduce inflammation.
- Performing saltwater rinses a few times a day to flush out bad bacteria and encourage the sores to heal. Just mix one-fourth cup of warm water with one-fourth teaspoon of salt until it dissolves. Swish for 30 seconds and spit it out.
- Allowing your dentures to soak overnight while you’re asleep. This will give your mouth a break and let the sores begin to heal.
- Practicing regular brushing and flossing to rid your mouth of any harmful bacteria and food particles that could cause tooth decay (if you have any existing natural teeth) or gum disease.
When Should You See a Dentist About Your Denture Sores?
When dentures no longer fit correctly, you should plan to schedule an appointment with your dentist to determine if you need a reline or replacement. The development of sores is a clear indicator that professional help is needed, so it’s best to get in for a visit sooner rather than later.
While at the appointment, your dentist will examine your mouth to determine if jawbone resorption is occurring. If it proves to be the reason your denture is no longer fitting as it should, they may suggest a reline, which is a simple process that can often be performed in-house while you wait.
Otherwise, if there is damage to your denture, or a reline is not enough to fix the problem, a new denture will need to be created to ensure a more comfortable fit. If you do not want to move forward with another set of removable teeth, you can ask about switching to dental implants for a more permanent and comfortable approach to tooth replacement.
Living with ill-fitting dentures that irritate your mouth and cause sores to form isn’t necessary. Instead, get the help you need and start enjoying life with a healthier set of teeth that don’t rub, slip, or bother the rest of your smile.
About Grand Dental – Sycamore
At Grand Dental – Sycamore, we know living with dentures can be enjoyable and bothersome at the same time. When irritation occurs because of ill-fitting prosthetics, sores can form inside the mouth, leaving patients desperate for a solution. Our talented dentists and specialists are here to provide options for treating denture-related discomfort. Whether it’s a reline or replacement you need, or you want to discuss the idea of dental implants, visit our website to learn more.