Most dentists recommend taking your dentures out at night. It gives your gums a rest, lets saliva clean and protect your mouth, and lowers the risk of infections. While they’re out, keep your dentures in water or a soaking solution so they don’t dry out and change shape.
Why you shouldn’t usually sleep in dentures
- Your gums need a break. Constant pressure from a denture can cause sore spots and may speed up bone loss under the denture.
- Infection risk. Wearing dentures overnight is linked to fungal infections such as denture stomatitis, and research has linked overnight wear in older adults to a higher risk of pneumonia.
- Cleaner dentures. Night-time is the natural time to clean and soak them.
The exception is right after extractions, when your dentist may ask you to keep an immediate denture in for the first day or so to control swelling. Follow their instructions.
Should dentures be kept in water overnight?
Yes. Denture acrylic can dry out and warp if it’s left out in the air. Store dentures overnight in:
- Plain cool water, or
- A denture soaking solution, following the product instructions.
Never use hot water, which can warp them. If your denture has metal parts, check that the soaking product is suitable. Rinse dentures before putting them back in, especially after a cleaning solution.
A simple night routine
- Take out your dentures and rinse off food.
- Brush them gently with a soft brush and denture cleaner (not regular toothpaste, which can scratch).
- Clean your gums, tongue and any natural teeth.
- Soak the dentures overnight in water or solution.
- Rinse in the morning before wearing.
What about snap-in dentures and All-on-4?
Snap-in dentures are removed at night like regular dentures, and the implant attachments should be brushed. All-on-4 bridges are fixed and stay in, so you clean around and under them instead.
This article is general information, not medical or dental advice. Talk to a licensed dentist about your situation.