Can You Sleep with Dentures at Night? Essential Tips for Wearers

Many new and long-time denture wearers often ask whether sleeping with dentures at night is safe or advisable. This blog explores the various aspects of wearing dentures during sleep, including the potential benefits and drawbacks, and offers guidance on best practices for denture care.

Denture

Can You Sleep with Dentures at Night?

Technically, yes; however, most dental professionals advise against sleeping with dentures overnight regularly as this can cause many oral health issues, including:

• Reduced Saliva Production: Saliva plays an essential role in oral health by helping fight bacteria. Wearing dentures at night may interfere with saliva production, increasing your risk for tooth decay and gum disease in any remaining natural teeth.

• Bone and Gum Resorption: Constant pressure on gums and jawbones during sleep can accelerate bone resorption, in which its supporting structures slowly dissolve over time. This can lead to loose dentures that require frequent adjustments and discomfort caused by a lack of support from these bones for dentures that cannot remain properly in their positions.

• Increased Risk of Pneumonia: Studies have revealed that wearing dentures at night may increase the risk of pneumonia in older adults due to increased bacteria accumulation within the mouth, which can enter one's lungs through breathing.

Should Dentures Be Removed at Night?

Yes, removing dentures at night is generally advised for optimal oral health and hygiene. Removing them for at least six to eight hours each night gives gums and bones time to recuperate from the pressure from wearing dentures during the day. Here are a few benefits associated with this practice.

• Promoting Oral Health: Allowing time for your gums to relax and experiencing the natural antibacterial benefits of saliva can be highly beneficial in maintaining healthier gums and decreasing the risks of infections.

• Enhancing Comfort: Removing dentures at night can alleviate discomfort caused by prolonged wear.

• Improves Denture Longevity: Giving your dentures a break can help maintain their shape and functionality.

Can Upper Dentures Be Worn to Sleep? 

Although some individuals wear their upper dentures when sleeping, as they provide security and increased comfort, general guidelines recommend removing them during the night to benefit the gums and jaw.

Best Practices for Denture Wearers

 If you choose or are advised to wear your dentures at night, here are some best practices you should abide by:

• Clean Thoroughly: Be sure to thoroughly clean your dentures each night before going to sleep, such as by brushing to remove food debris and bacteria or submerging them in denture cleaning solution if they need to be removed for cleaning.

• Maintain Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups to ensure optimal denture fit and the health of gums and remaining teeth.

• Gradual Adjustments: If you're new to dentures and experience difficulty sleeping without them, try gradually decreasing their usage until you can leave them out comfortably at night.

Conclusion 

While sleeping with dentures may seem convenient, it's usually better not to. Removing them at night will promote oral health, prevent complications from developing and ensure comfort. If specific concerns or conditions require sleeping with dentures at night, please consult your dentist for personalized advice.

Explore top-quality denture solutions at West Vaughan Dental. Visit West Vaughan Dental to learn more about their services and book your appointment today for expert care and a confident smile!