Denture wearers may develop a condition known as stomatitis, an inflammation of the gums and soft tissues underneath dentures. It is most common in people who wear full or partial dentures for long periods, especially those who leave their dentures in while sleeping. Many people do not even realize they have it because it often does not cause pain. However, if left untreated, it can increase the risk of infections and make wearing dentures uncomfortable.
This condition usually results from an overgrowth of Candida, a fungus that naturally lives in the mouth. When dentures are not cleaned properly, bacteria and fungi will begin to build up, leading to irritation. Poorly fitted dentures may also play a role. Trapped food particles or small sores can result from ill-fitting dentures, leading to stomatitis. Also, people with weaker immune systems or conditions like diabetes are more likely to develop this issue.
Some people do not realize they have the condition, as stomatitis does not always show obvious symptoms and may be challenging to spot. However, some people may notice redness, swelling, or soreness in their gums. Others might see small red spots or feel discomfort when wearing their dentures. In more serious cases, white patches can appear on the gums or the roof of the mouth. Because the symptoms are often mild, regular dental checkups are the best way to catch any issues before they worsen.
If denture wearers keep their appliances clean and care for their oral hygiene, they can help prevent stomatitis. Simple ways to guard against this condition include the following.
Use a soft-bristled brush and a mild denture cleanser to remove food and plaque. Regular toothpaste is too abrasive and can damage the surface.
Many denture wearers benefit from soaking them in a cleaning solution while they sleep to help remove bacteria.
Wearing dentures overnight increases the risk of infection. Giving the gums a break helps keep them healthy.
Checkups help ensure dentures fit properly and allow the dentist to spot any early signs of irritation or infection.
Dentists suggest patients brush the gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth each day to help remove bacteria and keep the mouth fresh.
A dentist may recommend an antifungal treatment to get rid of the overgrowth of Candida if a patient develops stomatitis. In some cases, adjusting or replacing poorly fitting dentures may be necessary to prevent further irritation. Practicing good oral hygiene and denture care can also help mild cases clear up on their own. A dentist can offer the best advice on treating the condition and preventing it from returning.
Denture stomatitis is common. However, patients can take steps to help prevent it. Call today to learn more about denture care and our other services.
Request an appointment here: https://austinprimarydental.com or call Austin Primary Dental at (512) 808-5651 for an appointment in our Austin office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dentures and Partial Dentures in Austin, TX.
Are you looking for more information about denture adhesives? When you need to wear dentures so you can achieve good oral health, it is important to understand everything there is to know about dentures, including proper denture care. Denture care also includes potentially wearing denture adhesives.According to the Food and Drug Administration, in most cases,…
If you have partial dentures, you know how important it is to take good care of them. Repairs can be costly and sometimes damaged dentures may require a total replacement. When it comes to partial dentures, there are many parts prone to breaking, including the teeth, clasps, acrylic plastic base and any metal pieces. When…
A lot of people are curious about what materials are used to make dental dentures. This article will show you the different types of materials that can be used and their benefits, and which material is best for your situation.Dental dentures are used to replace missing teeth that cannot be fixed with a dental bridge.…
Deciding that it might be time to start considering dentures isn’t always the most exciting conversation. However, it can be challenging for many people to determine if they are ready for dentures or if there is another option. First, it is crucial to recognize that most of us will have dentures at some point in…
Although X-rays in general dentistry have been used for ages, digital X-rays are proving to be more efficient and safer. They offer numerous benefits that traditional ones do not, making them more popular among general dentistry practices. Here is what you can expect from the use of digital X-rays in general dentistry.Outlined below are some…
A tooth extraction involves removing damaged, decayed, or impacted teeth. While recovery is usually straightforward, complications can happen. For instance, dry socket is a condition that occurs when the protective blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves too soon, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. Fortunately, dry socket is preventable with proper…