Replacing Missing Teeth - The Impact of Dentures on Your Gums
Posted on 6/16/2025 by Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona
Losing teeth can be a daunting experience, but fortunately, there are options available to help restore your smile and chewing function. Dentures, removable replacements for missing teeth, are a popular choice for many people. However, it's important to understand how dentures can affect your gums and what you can do to maintain good oral health while wearing them.
How Dentures Interact with Your Gums
When your natural teeth are removed, the underlying bone begins to shrink and reshape. This process can continue even after dentures are placed, leading to ill-fitting dentures that may slip or rub against your gums. The constant friction can irritate the gum tissues, causing inflammation, redness, and even sores.
Even perfectly fitted dentures can impact your gums. Dentures cover a significant portion of the gums, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup. Plaque, a sticky film that forms on your teeth and gums, contains bacteria that can cause inflammation and infection. If not removed regularly, plaque can contribute to gum disease, a serious condition that can damage your gums and the underlying bone.
Maintaining Healthy Gums with Dentures
Wearing dentures requires special attention to your oral hygiene routine. Here's what you can do to maintain healthy gums and prevent problems:
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Brush your dentures regularly: After every meal, remove your dentures and brush them thoroughly with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner. This will remove food particles and plaque buildup.
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Clean your gums and tongue: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a gum brush to gently massage your gums and tongue. This helps remove plaque and stimulates blood circulation, promoting gum health.
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Soak your dentures overnight: Remove your dentures before bed and soak them in a denture-cleaning solution as instructed by your dentist. This helps loosen plaque and debris and prevents bacterial growth.
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Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups are crucial even if you wear dentures. Your dentist can examine your gums for signs of irritation or disease, check the fit of your dentures, and make adjustments if necessary.
Prevention and Early Intervention
In addition to good oral hygiene, there are other things you can do to minimize the impact of dentures on your gums:
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Choose a qualified dentist: Ensure your dentist has experience fitting and adjusting dentures.
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Schedule regular adjustments: As your gums and underlying bone change over time, your dentures will need to be adjusted to maintain a proper fit.
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Report any discomfort: If you experience pain, irritation, or sores while wearing your dentures, consult your dentist immediately.
Taking good care of your dentures and gums can help you enjoy a healthy and comfortable smile for years to come. By following the tips above and working closely with your dentist, you can minimize the impact of dentures on your gums and maintain a healthy foundation for your oral well-being.
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Dental Implants | Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona At Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center AZ, our team offers high-quality and affordable treatment options for patients with oral health problems. Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona, 4455 E. Camelback Rd #E-100, Phoenix, AZ 85018 : (480) 504-0506 : azimplantsolutions.com : 7/15/2025 : Page Terms:Periodontist Phoenix AZ :
Losing teeth can be a daunting experience, but fortunately, there are options available to help restore your smile and chewing function. Dentures, removable replacements for missing teeth, are a popular choice for many people. However, it's important to understand how dentures can affect your gums and what you can do to maintain good oral health while wearing them.