If you wear dentures, you may be familiar with the painful problem known as denture sores. Denture sores are caused by several things but are most commonly attributed to the prosthetic pressing on nerves or by bacteria in the mouth. Thankfully, no matter the specific cause of your discomfort, there are a few things you can do at home to reduce your risk of developing them and alleviate the pain of sores you may already have. Here are some home remedies that can help!
Home Remedies for Denture Sores
- Topical anesthetics with ingredients like benzocaine can be purchased and applied directly to your denture sores.
- Rinsing your mouth with salty water four or five times each day will not only soothe your gums, but it will also keep your sores clean in the process.
- Try an OTC pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage any discomfort.
- Be sure to remove your dentures overnight, whether you have sores or not.
- Soak your dentures overnight in either water or denture soak so they don’t dry out.
Preventing Denture Sores
In addition to finding relief from denture sore pain, it is equally important to prevent them from appearing in the first place. To reduce your risk of developing them, try the following steps:
- Be sure to remove your dentures every single night before bed.
- Clean your dentures daily by completely removing them from your mouth and scrubbing the entire prosthetic with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild cleanser. Rinse well and be sure to floss between the teeth, too.
- Eat soft foods (and avoid sticky foods) when you begin wearing a new denture or set.
- Use a denture adhesive while you are adjusting to your new prosthetics. This will help keep them in place and stop them from irritating your gums.
- Avoid foods that are hot, spicy, acidic, or salty, as these can irritate your sores.
Remember, denture sores don’t have to be a way of life. Don’t suffer needlessly with these uncomfortable oral injuries. Try the tips above for preventing and treating them at home. If you are still experiencing any discomfort, speak to your dentist, as you may need a reline, adjustment, or it may be time to upgrade to a new pair.
About Dr. Clark
Dr. Rachel Clark loves making a positive impact on her patients’ lives through excellent oral health. Whether she’s providing an exam and cleaning, a cosmetic treatment, or alleviating their pain by repairing or adjusting their dentures, she is proud to help patients in Derby smile again!
If you are suffering from recurring denture sores, or if your dentures are showing signs that it may be time for a repair, adjustment, or replacement, please contact Illuminate Family Dentistry on our website or by calling 316-847-7730 to schedule an appointment.