Dentures And Sleep: The Best Advice On Nighttime Care

For individuals wearing dentures, proper nighttime care is essential for maintaining optimal oral hygiene and ensuring a restful night’s sleep. In this comprehensive guide, our team of professionals at Hamilton Dental Emergency Centre will explore the significance of nighttime care for denture wearers and offer valuable tips on cleaning routines, storage options, and strategies to promote both dental health and a peaceful night’s rest.

The Importance of Nighttime Care for Denture Wearers

Nighttime care for dentures is crucial for several reasons. It not only contributes to the longevity and cleanliness of the dentures but also plays a significant role in preventing oral health issues. Here’s why paying attention to your dentures during the night is essential:

Plaque and Bacteria Removal

• Nighttime is an opportune moment to eliminate accumulated plaque and bacteria on dentures, preventing potential oral health problems.

Gum Health

• Proper nighttime care helps in maintaining healthy gums, reducing the risk of irritation or inflammation associated with wearing dentures.

Comfortable Sleep

• Clean dentures contribute to a more restful sleep, minimising any discomfort or shifting during the night.

Prevention of Bad Breath

• Thorough cleaning at night helps prevent bad breath, ensuring fresh oral hygiene when you wake up.

Tips for Nighttime Denture Care

What Is the Recommended Denture Care During Sleep?

The recommended care involves:

• Thorough cleaning with a denture brush.
• Soaking in a suitable solution.
• Storing them in a ventilated container.

These practices contribute to oral health and a comfortable night’s sleep.

What Should I Do With My Dentures Overnight?

Store dentures in water or a mild soaking solution to prevent them from drying out. Regular cleaning and proper storage contribute to maintaining their shape and cleanliness.

Cleaning Routines

• Brushing: Use a soft-bristled brush designed for dentures to clean all surfaces thoroughly. Pay attention to areas where plaque can accumulate.
• Soaking: Place dentures in a denture cleaning solution or a mixture of water and baking soda overnight. This helps in removing stains and disinfecting the dentures.

Dentures and Sleep: Storage Options

• Water Soak: Store dentures in water or a mild denture-soaking solution overnight to prevent them from drying out and losing their shape.
• Ventilated Container: Use a well-ventilated container to store dentures to avoid the growth of fungi or bacteria.

Oral Rinse

• Before inserting dentures in the morning, rinse your mouth with an antiseptic or fluoride mouthwash to maintain overall oral health.

Regular Check-ups

• Schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to ensure that your dentures fit properly and to address any issues promptly.

Comfortable Sleeping Environment

• Ensure your sleep environment is conducive to oral health. Avoid sleeping with a dry mouth by staying hydrated, and consider using a humidifier if needed.

Dentures and Sleep: Nighttime Oral Care Routine

• Make denture care a part of your nightly routine, alongside regular oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing remaining natural teeth.

Emergency Preparedness

• Be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances by having a denture repair kit at hand. Consult your dentist for guidance on temporary fixes until professional assistance is available.

Are You Supposed to Sleep With Your Dentures In at Night?

No, sleeping with your dentures in at night is not advisable. The general

 recommendation is to remove dentures before bedtime to facilitate rest for the oral tissues. When it comes to dentures and sleep, sleeping without dentures offers several benefits, as it not only allows the gums and supporting structures to recover but also helps mitigate various complications that can arise from extended denture wear during sleep.

 

Complications of Sleeping with Dentures

Fungal Infections

• Prolonged denture wear can create a conducive environment for the growth of fungi, leading to conditions such as oral thrush. Removing dentures at night helps prevent the accumulation of moisture, reducing the risk of fungal infections.

Oral Tissue Irritation

• Continuous pressure on the gums and oral tissues from dentures can cause irritation and discomfort. Allowing the tissues to rest during the night promotes better overall oral health.

Changes in Oral Tissue

• Extended wear of dentures, especially during sleep, may contribute to changes in the shape of the oral tissues over time. This can lead to ill-fitting dentures and potential oral health issues.

Reduced Blood Circulation

• Wearing dentures for extended periods, including during sleep, may impact blood circulation to the oral tissues. Removing dentures at night promotes improved blood flow, supporting tissue health.

Dry Mouth and Salivary Issues

• Sleeping with dentures can contribute to dry mouth, which may lead to salivary gland issues. Adequate saliva flow is crucial for maintaining oral health, and allowing the mouth to remain without dentures supports natural saliva production.

Increased Risk of Aspiration

• There is an increased risk of dentures dislodging during sleep, potentially leading to aspiration if the dentures enter the airway. Removing dentures minimises this risk, promoting a safer sleep environment.

By adhering to the recommendation of removing dentures at night, individuals can prevent these complications and contribute to their overall comfort and well-being as well as optimal denture maintenance. Establishing a routine of proper denture care when it comes to dentures and sleep, including nightly removal and cleaning, is vital to maintaining optimal oral health and preventing potential long-term issues.

 

Dentures and Sleep: Conclusion

Proper nighttime care for dentures is fundamental to maintaining oral health and overall well-being. By incorporating these tips into your nightly routine, you can ensure that your dentures remain clean comfortable, and contribute to a good night’s sleep. 

Regular communication with our team at Hamilton Dental Emergency Centre and a commitment to consistent nighttime care will go a long way in enhancing your experience as a denture wearer.

 

Hamilton Dental Emergency Centre is the longest-established after-hours dentist. The practice is well-equipped to handle majority of the dental emergencies 24/7, taking full advantage of the newest advances in technology within the field. Our patients benefit from the clinical expertise of Dr. David Smith and Dr. Rahul Gautam who have a collective experience of more than 60 years.

Book an Appointment here or call us on 07 834 9293