New dentures can be life-changing, but if you’re still adjusting, the last thing you want to deal with is denture sores. These small, painful lesions are a common issue, especially during the first few weeks of wearing your prosthetics. Luckily, there are a few simple steps you can take to ease the pain and get back to smiling comfortably again. Continue reading to see what causes denture sores and how you can reclaim your comfort.
What Causes Denture Sores?
Denture sores form when your prosthetic rubs against your gums, often due to poor fit, pressure points, or tiny mouth movements throughout the day. Over time, this friction can cause irritation or small ulcers that make eating and speaking uncomfortable.
Sores are most common during the first few weeks of wear, but even long-time denture wearers can experience them if the fit changes over time.
How to Cope with Denture Sores
Have you recently had a few of these uninvited guests show up in your smile? Here are some excellent tips to ease the discomfort and start healing:
Give Your Mouth a Break
Try taking your dentures out for a few hours each day (especially while sleeping). This gives your gum tissue a chance to rest and heal. Just remember to store your prosthetics in water or a cleaning solution so they don’t dry out.
Rinse with Salt Water
A warm saltwater rinse can reduce inflammation and help minor sores heal faster. Just dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, rinse gently, and spit. Repeat this a couple of times a day as needed.
Use Denture Adhesive Temporarily
A small amount of adhesive can help your dentures stay in place and reduce movement that causes rubbing. Look for a zinc-free formula and follow the instructions carefully to avoid overuse.
Visit Your Dentist for Adjustments
While you shouldn’t need any adjustments with new dentures, older ones can loosen over time. Your dentist can often reline your prosthetics for a better fit. However, if they’re too old or worn out, a new pair might be the best bet instead.
Keep Your Dentures Clean
Bacteria can worsen irritation and slow healing. So, clean your dentures daily with a soft toothbrush and clear, scentless, liquid soap. Then, for a deeper cleanse, soak them overnight using a denture cleaner solution. Don’t forget to brush and rinse your mouth, too, even if you don’t have any natural teeth left.
Denture sores might be common, but they don’t have to be part of your new normal. With a few at-home tips and some help from your dental team, you can eliminate sore spots and enjoy a more comfortable fit. Don’t settle for painful smiles. Take action and feel the difference a comfortable pair of prosthetics can make.
About the Practice
At Brown & Nawrocki Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Andrew M. Nawrocki and Dr. Kimberly Dennis understand how frustrating denture sores can be. That’s why we take a personalized approach to ensure your dentures fit comfortably and securely. Whether you need an adjustment or a better solution altogether, we’re here to help you smile without discomfort. Call (386) 677-1046 to schedule a denture consultation with us or visit our website to learn more.