Preventing Denture-Related Gum Discomfort

Dentures allow adults to smile with confidence. They can also help wearers chew better and can help improve speech. Dentures can even help their wearers get better nutrition since they improve chewing.¹

While dentures provide many benefits, they can also induce discomfort. Your dentures can even cause gum soreness.

What Can Cause Gum Soreness from Dentures?

A common cause of gum soreness is simply poorly fitting dentures.² Dentures that don’t fit correctly can cause irritation, and if left untreated, lead to infected gums.² It’s important to see your dentist if your dentures are causing irritation or do not fit properly.² Another sign that your dentures fit poorly is if eating and talking becomes more difficult.³

Another condition that can cause gum soreness is denture stomatitis.⁴ Denture-related stomatitis is caused by candida, which is a type of fungus. When your mouth has too much candida, you can be at risk for a fungal infection. It is strongly advised that you contact your dentist if you have any signs of irritation or infection.

Symptoms of denture stomatitis include:⁴

• Tenderness and swelling in the mouth
• Redness in the mouth 
• Pain from swallowing
• Red or white patches on your gums, tongue, cheeks or lips
• Sores in the corner of your mouth 

There are many different factors that can cause denture-related stomatitis. You can get denture-related stomatitis from:⁴

• Inadequate oral hygiene
• Wearing your dentures for too long
• Consuming too much sugar, carbohydrates or alcohol
• Smoking
• Certain antibiotics
• Poor nutrition 
• Immunosuppression

Denture-related stomatitis is most common in those who are 65 years or older.⁴

How Common Is Gum Pain from Dentures

It’s common for patients with dentures to encounter gum irritation occasionally.⁴ Denture stomatitis, which can cause gum pain, occurs in 70% of denture wearers.⁴

Treating Gum Pain From Dentures

See your dentist if your dentures cause gum pain. Your dentist may suggest that you need new dentures.¹ If your gum pain is the result of denture stomatitis, there are a few ways the condition can be treated; but it is important to consult your dentist for professional guidance, keeping in mind it is not suggested to self-treat:⁴

• Anti-fungal medication: This medication is often the first treatment method prescribed. In particular, nystatin or miconazole may be prescribed. This medication can come in lozenge form or as an ointment.⁴
• Laser therapy: Low-energy laser therapy may be used if the anti-fungal medication doesn’t treat your denture stomatitis.⁴
• Surgical removal: Denture stomatitis can cause small nodules to form on the roof of the mouth. These nodules can prevent your dentures from fitting correctly. Dentists may use a minor surgical procedure to remove the nodules so that your dentures fit properly.⁴

How to Prevent Denture Gum Soreness

Daily care can help prevent your dentures from causing gum soreness. Daily denture care can also help keep your dentures in optimal condition. To take care of your teeth, gums and dentures, take the following actions^1,2,3,5

• Remove your dentures before bed or take them out for at least eight hours per day. Doing so can give your gums relief.
• Get regular check-ups and teeth cleanings at the dentist. This will help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Regular dental exams can help your dentist detect oral conditions or infections in their earliest stages. Your dentist can also clean your dentures to remove stains or scaling. Seeing your dentist regularly can allow your dentist to evaluate the fit of your denture. If you’re looking for affordable dental care, consider Altogether Dental, a dental discount plan that can help you save money on cleanings, dentures and more.
• Brush your dentures each day. It’s essential that you brush your dentures first to remove any food particles. Don’t brush your dentures with toothpaste—make sure that you use a non-abrasive denture cleanser. It’s important that you brush each part of your dentures. Use a soft toothbrush like the Polident Dental Appliance Brush to prevent your dentures from becoming damaged. You should avoid using a toothbrush with hard bristles as they can damage your dentures.
• Soak your dentures each day. You should soak your dentures in a denture-cleaning solution. Using a solution like the Polident Overnight Denture Whitener Cleanser will disinfect your dentures and can help remove any plaque or stains on them when used as directed.
• Brush your gums, tongue and the roof of your mouth in the morning and in the evening. This can help remove plaque and promote blood circulation in the mouth. Taking care of your mouth and brushing your teeth can help prevent tooth decay as well as gum disease.
• Thoroughly rinse your dentures with warm water before putting them in your mouth.
• Never use denture adhesives to resolve poor-fitting dentures. Dentures that don’t fit correctly should be replaced or relined to prevent sores. See your dentist if you notice a change in how your dentures fit. It’s common for the fit of your dentures to change as your gums can shift over time.

For additional comfort and extra grip, you can try Poligrip Power Max Hold + Comfort. This product uses a soft gel to provide extra comfort and a strong hold for your dentures.

Your oral health is important. Get more tips on how you can care for your dentures.