The Risks of Denture Stomatitis and Thrush: Why You Should Always Remove Your Dentures at Night

Wearing dentures has many benefits, providing the freedom to speak, smile, and eat with confidence. But maintaining healthy habits with dentures is just as important as taking care of natural teeth, and a crucial aspect of this is removing them each night. Keeping dentures in while you sleep can lead to a host of problems, the most common being denture stomatitis and oral thrush. In this post, we’ll discuss what these conditions are, why they develop, and how you can protect yourself.

What Is Denture Stomatitis?

Denture stomatitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissue beneath the denture, usually caused by prolonged wear, poor cleaning habits, or a combination of both. This condition is primarily caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, a fungus that naturally exists in our mouths but can grow excessively when the environment is conducive. When dentures aren’t removed regularly, the lack of airflow, combined with warmth and moisture, creates the perfect breeding ground for Candida, leading to infection.

Symptoms of Denture Stomatitis
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may be dealing with denture stomatitis:

- Red, inflamed, or swollen tissue, especially under the upper denture
- Mild discomfort or burning sensation, although it’s often painless
- Small red spots or patches on the gums or roof of the mouth

 Understanding Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is another fungal infection caused by Candida yeast. While denture stomatitis usually affects the gums and the roof of the mouth, oral thrush can spread to other parts of the oral cavity, including the inner cheeks, tongue, and throat. Thrush is more common among denture wearers, especially if dentures are left in overnight.

Symptoms of Oral Thrush
Oral thrush symptoms include:

- White, creamy lesions on the tongue, cheeks, and gums
- Pain or discomfort in the affected areas
- Loss of taste or a cottony sensation in the mouth
- Cracking and redness at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis)

Why Keeping Dentures In Overnight Puts You at Risk

When you leave dentures in overnight, the warm, moist environment creates an ideal space for yeast and bacteria to grow. This not only increases the likelihood of infections like stomatitis and thrush but can also compromise your oral hygiene and overall health. Here’s why removing dentures at night is essential:

1. Improves Gum Health: Gums need time to rest and recover. Constant pressure from dentures can lead to tissue damage, inflammation, and irritation, making them more susceptible to infection.

2. Prevents Bacterial and Fungal Overgrowth: Leaving dentures in overnight fosters an environment that encourages the growth of *Candida* and other harmful microorganisms.

3. Reduces Bad Breath: Odor-causing bacteria build up on and beneath the dentures when they’re not removed, often leading to unpleasant breath.

4. Prevents Gum Inflammation and Bone Resorption: Wearing dentures 24/7 can stress the gums and underlying jawbone, which can contribute to gradual bone loss, a common issue among denture wearers.

Steps to Prevent Denture Stomatitis and Oral Thrush

To keep your mouth healthy and your dentures in great condition, consider the following preventive steps:

1. Remove Dentures Every Night: Give your gums a break and let the tissue “breathe” overnight by soaking your dentures in water or in the Sereclean denture-cleaning solution safely in a Sereclean Pod.

2. Clean Dentures Thoroughly: Clean dentures thoroughly using a Sereclean Pod with a Sereclean cleansing tablet. Avoid toothpaste, as it may be too abrasive.

3. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Even if you don’t have natural teeth, brushing your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft-bristled brush helps maintain oral health.

4. Stay Hydrated: Dry mouth can exacerbate fungal growth. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist and inhibit Candida growth.

5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Routine dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor your oral health, check your denture fit, and catch potential issues early.

The Bottom Line

Denture stomatitis and oral thrush are preventable conditions often resulting from improper denture care. By removing your dentures at night and following a consistent cleaning routine, you can lower the risk of these infections and promote a healthier mouth overall. Remember, taking those few extra steps each night to care for your dentures can make a significant difference in maintaining your comfort and health for years to come.