Why You Should Never Sleep With Dentures
Dentures provide a solution for many elderly individuals and those who have lost their natural teeth, improving both chewing function and facial aesthetics. However, one of the most essential practices for denture wearers is removing them while sleeping. Sleeping with dentures harms oral hygiene and can increase the risk of serious health issues, such as pneumonia. This article explores the dangers of sleeping with dentures and the compelling reasons for removing them before bed.
Can Sleeping With Dentures Cause Pneumonia?
Scientific studies have shown that sleeping with dentures can double the risk of pneumonia. Researchers at Nihon University in Japan found that poor oral hygiene and prolonged denture use at night lead to tongue plaque formation, gum inflammation, and the growth of pathogenic fungi. These factors can lead to respiratory infections and pneumonia.
Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by the accumulation of bacteria, viruses, or fungi in the lungs, which can be life-threatening in severe cases. Keeping dentures in the mouth overnight allows bacteria to enter the respiratory tract, increasing the risk of infection.
Side Effects of Sleeping With Dentures
1. Gum Inflammation and Pain
Dentures exert constant pressure on the gums and jawbone, leading to inflammation and redness. Prolonged use of dentures without giving oral tissues a break can cause irritation and sores in the gums, eventually leading to severe discomfort and even infections.
2. Higher Risk of Pneumonia
As mentioned earlier, sleeping with dentures promotes the accumulation of bacteria and fungi in the mouth. These microorganisms can enter the lungs during breathing and cause severe respiratory infections such as pneumonia. Additionally, wearing dentures overnight can hinder natural saliva clearance, increasing the chances of contaminated fluids reaching the lungs.
3. Denture-Related Stomatitis
Denture-related stomatitis is inflammation in the roof of the mouth caused by constant exposure to bacteria. Symptoms include redness, inflammation, and pain in the palate. It is especially common among individuals who wear dentures continuously throughout the day and night.
4. Bone Loss and Jaw Changes
Wearing dentures while sleeping applies continuous pressure on the jawbone, leading to bone resorption and reduced bone density. As a result, the shape of the jaw changes, making dentures less stable and ill-fitting. Additionally, changes in jaw structure can affect facial appearance, making a person look older.
Best Practices for Denture Care
How to Maintain Good Denture Hygiene
- Remove dentures before sleeping: This allows oral tissues to rest and prevents constant pressure on the gums and jawbone.
- Clean dentures properly: Before bed, brush your dentures with a soft toothbrush and an appropriate cleaning solution to prevent bacterial and fungal buildup.
- Massage the gums: After removing the dentures, gently massage your gums with your fingers to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
- Store dentures correctly: Keep them in a proper cleaning solution or lukewarm water to prevent them from drying out and changing shape.
Conclusion
Oral hygiene plays a crucial role in overall health. Sleeping with dentures poses several risks, including an increased likelihood of pneumonia, gum inflammation, denture-related stomatitis, and jawbone resorption. Therefore, dentists strongly recommend that elderly individuals and denture wearers remove their prosthetics before sleeping and maintain proper oral hygiene. If possible, considering alternative solutions such as dental implants can mitigate these issues.
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