Maybe you got new dentures a while ago. If so, you made a smart move – these prosthetics are great at restoring your smile. Still, perhaps they’ve been irritating your gums. They may have even given you a case of denture sores. Luckily, your Brookline dentist can help you with the latter problem. You just need to learn some relevant facts first. To that end, here’s how to get rid of denture sores and when to see a dentist for them.
What are Denture Sores?
Sadly, dentures don’t always work smoothly with a patient’s mouth. They can sometimes cause unique oral problems. Denture sores are a case in point.
Put simply, denture sores are wounds to the gums caused by dentures. They tend to be swollen, irritated, and painful to the touch. Patients most often get the sores while first adjusting to new dentures. That said, roughly half of all denture wearers suffer from them.
Denture sores have various known causes. For instance, a patient’s dentures may not fit well and cut or rub against the gums. Similarly, constant denture use can create sores by putting pressure on your gums’ nerves. The sores may even result from gum inflammation, which must be cured before treatment can ease any pain.
Are There Home Remedies for Them?
Unless or until you get professional help, you’ll need to manage your denture sores yourself. Some good home remedies for them include:
- Take Pain Relievers – With store-bought pain relievers, you can ease the inflammation and pain you’re experiencing. You’ll then be better able to sleep and eat.
- Use Topical Anesthetics – A topical anesthetic can relieve pain caused by dentures. If available, you might try one containing benzocaine.
- Rinse with Salt Water – As best you can, rinse with salty water four or five times a day. Doing so will both soothe your gums and help them heal.
- Soak Your Dentures Overnight – To give your gums a chance to relax, put your dentures in a cleaning solution overnight.
When Should You See a Dentist?
If your denture sores persist for days or weeks, you should call your local dentist. They’ll have the training, resources, and experience to fix things.
Dentists can address denture sores through several methods. One is to reline your denture to fit more securely, ensuring it won’t irritate your mouth. Another approach they could try is to refit the prosthetics. If the sores have a bacterial source, a dentist may also clean your dentures and oral cavity.
Ultimately, knowing how to get rid of denture sores will help your smile. Use the tips and tricks above so your grin stays full and functional.
About the Practice
Boston Smile Center is based in Brookline, MA. Led by Drs. Sasson and Shainhouse, our practice gives each patient truly varied dental care. That means we offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services, as well as emergency dentistry. Our office is also a proud provider of Invisalign aligners that straighten teeth. Whatever your oral needs, we’re ready to repair and transform your smile. For more details or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (617)-739-1017.