Sore Gums From Dentures: How To Treat Them?

The gaps formed by any missing teeth cause problems with eating and speech. In some critical stages, the dentist advises us to remove or replace all the teeth. Dentures can help us in those situations. A denture is a removable tooth that fits over the gums to replace missing teeth and eliminate the problems caused by gaps. We can use either complete dentures or partial dentures based on the need. We can use “complete dentures” to replace all upper and lower teeth or “partial dentures” to replace one or a few missing teeth. A poorly fitted denture or worn dentures can cause discomfort and lead to gum sores and infections.

In this article, we can discuss the causes of sore gums from dentures and prevention to avoid sore gums. 

Sore Gums From Dentures: Is It Normal?

Yes! It is normal to have sore gums after wearing dentures. Many people face the same issue at the initial level. Mild pain and swelling are not a big issue. We, everyone, need some time to adapt to a new place. Like that, your gum and mouth also need some time to be familiar with the new dentures. You may get relief from sore gum shortly. If the pain or swelling continues for an extended period, it is necessary to consult the dentist. 

The sudden appearance of red spots on the gum below the denture or the formation of white yeast patches indicates the issue in the dentures. The most obvious symptom of an uncomfortable denture is pain during chewing or after wearing the dentures throughout the day. It may indicate nerve pain which can be a long-term side-effect of use. The pain above and below the dentures denotes improper denture fitting.

What Are The Causes Of Sore Gums From Dentures?

Following are some of the potential causes of sore gums after wearing dentures. 

• Bacterial infection: When the dentures are not carefully maintained or cleaned, bacteria build up in the area, and that causes the yeast to form under the dentures. Dentures need more healthy cleaning than natural teeth. Otherwise, there are chances for bacteria to grow inside the dentures. Due to this yeast formation, sore gums may occur. This bacterial infection can inflame all areas covered by the denture. And it gives us an entirely uncomfortable feel.
• Improper fitting: Sometimes, the dentures may fall out of alignment and struggle to fit in line. When these dentures rub on the top and bottom space of the gums, leading to form sore gums. This painful fitting issue results in extreme pain while eating as the pressure pushes down on the sensitive nerves in the jaw.
• Food particles stuck between the dentures and gums are another cause of sore gums from dentures. A good-fitting denture can prevent this from happening. Whatever the fitting, in some cases, food particles find their way to get into the gap between the dentures and the gums. The dentures may shift while eating food. This shifting allows the food to get stuck. Trapped food applies some extra pressure to the gum in the particular area leaving it uncleaned for long that can cause plaque. 
• Thrush or denture stomatitis by yeast or fungus can cause pain in the mouth if it grows to a high level. The chances of increasing thrush are more while wearing dentures, making it a common cause of gum soreness. Thrush appears as white sores in the mouth, making wearing dentures more painful.

Yes! Of course, the ultimate goal of wearing dentures is to eat favorite foods again. But after getting new dentures, it is essential to avoid some foods like hard and crunchy. You may experience difficulty chewing with new dentures and force the dentures to press against the sensitive gums, leading to discomfort. Spicy foods and vinegar give irritation when it touches any cuts or sores in the gums.

How Long Do Sore Gums From Dentures Take To Heal?

Generally, denture sores heal on their own in 7 to 10 days. Sometimes, it may heal even faster with proper care. We have plenty of simple ways to reduce the pain and care for denture-related sores.

Use the following tips that can heal the sore gums from the denture.

• Using pain relief medication can offer pain relief when you need it most. Apply pain relief creams externally onto the sore areas in the gums or around the mouth. Applying aloe vera gel right into the dentures once or twice a day can reduce denture irritation.
• Salt is an effective and natural remedy for oral pain. Take a mixture of salt and warm water and swish that in the mouth for up to 30 seconds. This method can give pain relief.
• It is a good idea to sleep without dentures. If it is causing sores in the daytime, a break is essential for the mouth while sleeping. Remove the dentures before bedtime, providing a chance to relax from any pressure.
• Maintaining proper oral hygiene is an effective way to reduce sores and avoid any inflammation or infection. Brushing the dentures and soaking in the denture cleaner solution can kill bacteria before it builds and loosen any particles on your dentures. Clean the roof of the mouth and other areas covered by dentures that help you remove yeast, thrush, or bacteria.
• Turmeric has pain-alleviating properties, and the curcumin present in turmeric contains antioxidants. The anti-inflammatory quality of turmeric is beneficial for reducing gum swelling.
• Black tea has tannic acid, and that can treat gum swelling.
• Eugenol is the primary ingredient in the clove, and it contains analgesic and anti-swelling properties. Mix some olive oil with grounded cloves and apply this paste to the gums for relief. Wait for five minutes, and then wash the gums with lukewarm water.
• Give some relaxation for the gum at a regular interval. It may avoid gum swelling and overpressure on the gum. Massage and gently rub the swollen gum areas that can improve blood flow in your gums.
• Using hot compresses stimulate blood flow, reduces swelling, and helps the gums to feel relaxed. Take a clean cloth, dipped in lukewarm water, and apply that compress outside in that exact place where you are experiencing gum swelling or soreness.

How Can We Prevent Sore Gums From Dentures?

The following are essential measures you can take to prevent denture sores. 

• Never forget to remove the dentures before sleep. 
• Clean the dentures daily to remove food particles and tartar.  
• Try to eat soft foods rather than crunchy foods. In the initial stage of wearing dentures, start with eating soft foods. You can try soft fruits and vegetables, ground meat, soups, and pudding when learning to eat with your new dentures.  
• Avoiding sticky food can help you more to prevent sore gums. Although eating everything with dentures is advisable, avoid sticky foods. These food types can shift the dentures from their place.
• Use denture adhesive that can provide a strong, all-day hold for dentures and prevent gum pain as it prevents food particles from getting stuck between the gums and dentures. These adhesives can keep the denture in the exact place to stop moving and irritating the gums. 
• Avoid hot, spicy, acidic, or salty foods and drinks. These foods can irritate denture sores more. 
• Having a fitting denture is the most crucial factor that prevents sore gum while wearing dentures. Once noticing a fitness issue with dentures, contact your dentist and adjust them without delay.  

Conclusion

Dentures are the essential solution for tooth loss, also called false teeth. Once we wear this, we need to give proper care. Otherwise, many problems may occur. In the first few weeks of wearing dentures, we may feel discomfort. Sore gum is the general issue many patients face after wearing a denture. In this condition, you may feel swelling or bleeding near the gum. Being aware of the causes, treatments, and preventive methods can help you avoid additional gum and denture issues.