Should You Wear Dentures Overnight? Here’s What You Need to Know
if you’ve recently been fitted with dentures, you may be wondering whether it’s safe — or even healthy — to wear them to bed. At Artistic Denture Design, we understand how important comfort and convenience are, especially in those first few weeks of adjusting to a new smile. However, when it comes to sleeping with dentures, there are a few important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind for your long-term oral health.
✅ DO: Sleep Well, A good nights Rest is Best
There is no rule about sleeping with dentures, it is purely a personal preference.
- If you choose to sleep in them - clean first
- If you choose to take them out - place in water
❌ DON’T: Sleep in Dentures Without Cleaning Them First
If, for medical reasons or personal comfort, you choose to sleep in your dentures, never skip the cleaning process. Bacteria and plaque can build up quickly, causing:
- Bad breath
- Gum disease
- Fungal infections (like thrush)
Always remove, brush, and soak your dentures before putting them back in — even if it’s only for overnight wear.
✅ DO: Store Your Dentures Correctly While You Sleep
When you take your dentures out, keep them moist to prevent warping or drying out. The best options include:
- A glass of water with a drop of mouthwash
- Cool water in a sealed container (never hot water)
This keeps them in shape and ready to wear the next day.
❌ DON’T: Wrap Dentures in Tissues or Leave Them on the Nightstand
It may be tempting to pop your dentures on the bedside table or wrap them in tissue, but this can lead to:
- Damage or accidental breakage
- Contamination from dust and germs
- Misplacement or loss
Always use a dedicated storage container with water (drop of mouthwash for added cleansing).
✅ DO: Talk to Your Denture Professional About Overnight Wear
In certain situations — such as the initial healing period after extractions or if you wear immediate dentures — your dental prosthetist will recommend wearing them overnight. But after initial 48 hours it is a personal option to wear them to bed after you have cleaned them.
At Artistic Denture Design, we tailor our advice to your specific case, ensuring your comfort and oral health are balanced.
❌ DON’T Ignore Discomfort or Soreness
If you’re waking up with sore spots, dry mouth, or irritation, it could be a sign your dentures need adjustment. Prolonged discomfort can lead to infection or damage to your gums and bone.
Book a check-up if:
- Your dentures feel loose or unstable
- You notice red patches or ulcers
- Your Smile seems lost
- Your experiencing added difficulties chewing
🦷 Time for a Denture Check?
Dentures should be checked regularly to ensure they’re still fitting comfortably and supporting your oral health. Changes in your gums and jaw over time can affect how they sit.
📍 Book your check-up at our Dapto Clinic today!
📞 Call now: 0438 722 214