If you wear dentures, you may have experienced sore spots on your gums at some point. These painful patches can make it difficult to eat, speak, or even smile comfortably. Fortunately, denture sores are often treatable—and preventable.
Let’s explore the most common causes, simple home remedies that bring relief, and signs that you should see your dentist.
What Causes Denture Sores?
Denture sores typically occur when dentures rub against the soft tissues of your mouth, creating irritation or small pressure ulcers. A few key factors can lead to this discomfort:
- Ill-fitting dentures: Over time, changes in your jawbone or gums can affect how your dentures fit. Loose or uneven dentures are more likely to cause rubbing and pressure points.
- New dentures: If you’ve recently started wearing dentures, your mouth may need time to adjust. Initial soreness is common but should improve as your tissues adapt.
- Poor hygiene: Food particles and bacteria trapped under dentures can cause inflammation and infection.
- Dry mouth: Saliva acts as a natural lubricant. Without enough of it, dentures may stick and create friction.
- Overuse: Wearing your dentures 24/7—especially while sleeping—can give your mouth no time to rest and recover.
Home Remedies for Denture Sores
If you’re dealing with mild irritation, you can often find relief at home using some gentle remedies:
- Saltwater rinses: Mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and rinse several times a day. Saltwater helps cleanse the area and reduce inflammation.
- Aloe vera gel: Apply a small amount of pure aloe vera to the sore spots for soothing relief.
- Remove dentures at night: Letting your gums rest overnight can help prevent and heal sores.
- Cold compress: Applying a cold, damp cloth to the outside of your cheek can reduce swelling and ease pain.
- Over-the-counter pain relief: Denture-specific topical gels or oral pain relievers can provide temporary comfort.
Make sure to clean your dentures thoroughly each day to avoid further irritation.
When to See Your Dentist
If sore spots don’t improve within a few days—or they seem to be getting worse—it’s time to schedule a checkup. Persistent denture sores can lead to infection or signal that your dentures need an adjustment or replacement.
In some cases, a reline or new set of dentures may be necessary to ensure a better fit. Your dentist can also check for any signs of fungal infections, like denture stomatitis, which require specific treatment.
For ongoing issues, you might consider exploring other tooth replacement options, like implant-retained dentures, which offer greater stability and reduce gum irritation over time.
Denture sores are common, but they shouldn’t be something you live with. Taking action early—whether through home care or a quick dental visit—can make a big difference in your comfort and oral health.
About the Practice
Plaisance and Bostick Family Dentistry serves the River Ridge community with carefully tailored care for teeth at any health stage. Dr. Plaisance and Dr. Bostick specialize in restorative solutions, including custom full and partial dentures designed for long-term comfort. Whether you’re a new denture wearer or have worn them for years, the team is here to ensure your smile feels as good as it looks.
Call us at (504) 738-5171 or request an appointment online.