Are you experiencing discomfort or sores on your gums due to your dentures? You’re not alone. Denture sores are a common issue faced by many denture wearers. Read on to learn about the most common causes of denture sores, some helpful home remedies to alleviate discomfort, and signs that indicate it’s time to seek professional help from your dentist.
Causes of Denture Sores
So, why do denture sores happen in the first place? Well, some common reasons include:
- Ill-Fitting Dentures: These can place excessive pressure on certain areas of your gums, leading to sore spots. This can occur if your dentures are old, worn out, or if your gum shape has changed over time. That’s why it’s important to have regular dental checkups to ensure your dentures fit properly.
- Denture Material Allergies: Some people may have allergic reactions to the materials used in their dentures (i.e., acrylic or metal) which can cause gum irritation and soreness. If you suspect an allergy, consult your dentist to explore alternative denture materials.
- Denture Cleaning and Maintenance: Inadequate denture cleaning and poor oral hygiene can lead to the buildup of bacteria, causing gum irritation and the formation of sores. Proper denture cleaning and regular oral hygiene routines are crucial in preventing such issues.
Home Remedies for Denture Sores
The good news is that you can alleviate your discomfort at home! Let’s take a look at some helpful tips:
- Saltwater Rinse: Prepare a warm saltwater solution by dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Rinse your mouth with this solution several times a day. Saltwater helps soothe irritated gums and promotes healing.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Apply a small amount of pure aloe vera gel to the affected areas on your gums. Aloe vera has soothing and healing properties that can provide relief from denture sores.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Medication: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation caused by denture sores. Make sure you follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult your doctor if you have any underlying health conditions.
When to Seek Professional Help
The good news is there are many ways to alleviate your discomfort at home. Let’s take a look at a few simple home tricks that can help:
- Topical Anesthetic: Your dentist may suggest using a topical anesthetic that contains benzocaine to relieve pain associated with dentures.
- Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with a solution of warm saltwater can help soothe sore gums. Try doing this four or five times a day until the gum tissue heals.
- Pain Medication: Over-the-counter pain reliever may be recommended by your dentist to reduce inflammation, pain, and discomfort caused by dentures.
- Remove Dentures Overnight: Give your gums a break and remove your dentures overnight. This allows your gums to breathe and relax during the night.
- Denture Soaking: Soak your dentures overnight in a denture cleaning solution or water. This helps maintain their cleanliness and freshness.
Remember, these home tricks are meant to provide temporary relief. You should regularly visit your dentist for professional checkups and guidance on denture care. They will ensure your dentures fit properly and offer unique recommendations based on your specific needs.
About the Practice
At Westgate Dental Care, we care about more than just your oral health – we care about your overall wellbeing. From routine checkups to smile-rebuilding solutions like dentures, we’ve got everything you need for optimal health in one convenient location. If you are concerned about your denture sores, don’t hesitate to get in touch! You can schedule an appointment via our website or call (847) 577-7171.