Have you started to develop red, tender, or irritated areas on your gums since getting your dentures? Do you experience pain every time you take a bite? While certainly unpleasant, this is fairly common, and there are plenty of simple solutions you can apply on your own before needing to reach out to your dentist.
But First, What Causes Denture Sore Spots?
You might be experiencing focused areas of pain on your gums because…
- The denture isn’t properly fitted, so it’s applying a lot of pressure
- You tend to chew with one side of your mouth more than the other
- You’ve developed a minor oral infection
How to Handle Denture Sore Spots
You’re not the first person to encounter this problem, so fortunately, many have figured out exactly what to do. Try any and all of the following if you haven’t already…
- Take them out for a day or so, as this might allow any small sores to heal naturally.
- Try over-the-counter pain meds for quick relief.
- Soak your dentures overnight if you’re not doing so already. This lets your gums rest and allows for airflow to keep them healthy and comfortable.
- Brush your dentures twice a day, making sure to take them out of your mouth so you can reach all sides. A good scrub will remove the bacteria that might be causing the sores.
- Chew on both sides of your mouth equally. Everyone favors one side over the other, and chewing on the same one over and over can put too much stress on the gums.
- Cut your food into smaller bites because overly big pieces can cause the dentures to press on the gums with a lot of force.
- Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash to remove oral bacteria.
- Try a warm saltwater rinse to soothe aching gums and lower the risk of infection.
When to Call Your Dentist
If you’ve tried all of the above and still deal with denture sore spots, then it’s time to call in the professional. Your dentist will be able to identify any issues with your denture, mouth, or both that could be the cause. They’ll also be able to adjust and repair your prosthetic in a way that you can’t at home.
The number one thing you SHOULDN’T do is ignore the problem. Sore spots might seem minor, but they can easily turn into a major infection (that causes a great deal of pain) if ignored. Pamper your gums for a few days, and if the problem doesn’t appreciably get better, there’s no need to wait—reach out to your dentist.
About the Author
Dr. Allan Mohr has dedicated his career to serving the Massapequa Park community for the last 40 years and is widely considered to be one of the most accomplished dentists in the country. In demand as a trainer, speaker, and educator, his favorite thing to do is help his patients achieve the smiles of their dreams, and he has enabled countless people to do just that using dentures and dental implants.
If you have dentures and frequently deal with pain and instability, click here or call (516) 541-7344 to get in touch with Dr. Mohr. The comfort you deserve is closer than you think!