Sleeping in Your Dentures: Why You Should Avoid It

For many denture wearers, especially those new to using them, it may seem convenient or even comforting to keep dentures in overnight. However, sleeping in your dentures is strongly discouraged by The Denture Spa. It’s more than just a matter of hygiene; keeping dentures in while you sleep can impact your oral and overall health.

In this blog, we’ll explain why you shouldn’t sleep in your dentures, the risks involved, and how to care for them properly for long-term comfort and performance.

Why Do People Sleep in Their Dentures?

There are a few reasons patients say they sleep in their dentures:

• They feel embarrassed to be seen without them

• They’re afraid of damaging them overnight

• It’s simply become a habit

But no matter the reason, removing your dentures at night is essential for your health.

1. Increased Risk of Infections

Wearing dentures 24/7 significantly increases the risk of fungal infections, such as denture stomatitis or oral thrush. These infections can cause redness, swelling, discomfort, and a burning sensation in the mouth. Letting your gums rest overnight helps prevent bacterial buildup and keeps your mouth healthier.

2. Gum Inflammation and Sore Spots

Dentures exert

pressure on the gums and underlying bone. Wearing them non-stop gives no time to recover, removing them at night gives your mouth a well-deserved rest.

3. Bone Loss Over Time

Wearing dentures (especially ill fitting) continuously can accelerate bone resorption—the process in which your jawbone shrinks over time due to lack of stimulation. This can lead to looser-fitting dentures and changes in facial appearance. Letting your mouth breathe at night helps slow this process.

4. Poor Denture Hygiene

If you're sleeping in your dentures, you're likely not cleaning them as often or as well as you should. Plaque, tartar, and bacteria can build up on the denture surface, leading to bad breath and an increased risk of gum disease and oral infections.

5. Higher Risk of Pneumonia

Studies have shown that sleeping in dentures increases the risk of aspiration pneumonia in older adults. Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs while sleeping, especially in those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions.

One of the most notable studies on this subject is a 2014 study published in the Journal of Dental Research, which found that elderly individuals who wore their dentures overnight were at more than double the risk of developing pneumonia compared to those who removed them before sleep.

Why Does This Happen?

When dentures are worn overnight:

• Bacteria and fungi accumulate on the denture surfaces.

• These microorganisms can be inhaled into the lungs, especially during sleep.

• This can lead to aspiration pneumonia, a serious lung infection, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems.

What Is Aspiration Pneumonia?

Aspiration pneumonia occurs when saliva, food, or bacteria from the mouth is inhaled into the lungs rather than swallowed. It can cause fever, cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing—and can be life-threatening in vulnerable individuals.

Removing dentures at night isn’t just about comfort—it’s a critical part of maintaining health and preventing serious infections especially in older patients.

Best Practice: Remove and Soak Every Night

To protect your oral health, follow this simple night-time routine:

• Remove your dentures before bed

• Brush your dentures gently using a denture brush and non-abrasive cleanser

• Soak them overnight in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water to keep them moist, ir wrapped in a damp tissue

• Brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth to stimulate circulation and maintain oral hygiene

• 
  

If You’re Uncomfortable Without Your Dentures at Night…

Speak with your Clinical Dental Technician. We can offer soft liners, custom-fit dentures, or implant-retained dentures for improved comfort and confidence—day and night.

Final Thoughts

While it may feel like a small thing, not sleeping in your dentures can make a huge difference to your oral health, hygiene, and long-term comfort. Your mouth needs time to rest and recover—just like the rest of your body.

At The Denture Spa, we’re here to help you get the best out of your dentures with expert advice, free consultations, and custom-made solutions designed and hand crafted, just for you.