Wearing a full or partial denture is a common way to restore a smile and support oral function, yet it often introduces a new challenge: gum soreness. Discomfort where the appliance meets the soft tissue is a frequent concern for many wearers. While irritation may be common, it should never be dismissed, as it signals that the underlying tissue is being damaged. Understanding the source of the pain is the first step toward finding relief and preventing long-term oral health problems.
Why Your Gums Become Sore
The causes of gum irritation under a denture generally fall into two categories: mechanical friction and biological factors. Mechanical issues are linked to the appliance itself. An ill-fitting denture is a common source of localized pain, pressing unevenly on the gum tissue and creating isolated pressure spots or painful lesions.
Poor fit occurs with new dentures as the mouth adjusts, or with older dentures due to alveolar bone resorption. As the jawbone changes shape over time, the denture’s base no longer conforms perfectly to the gum ridge, causing it to shift and rub during speaking or eating. Additionally, a cracked, chipped, or damaged appliance can create sharp edges that abrade the mucosal lining.
Biological causes frequently involve infection, most notably Denture Stomatitis. This condition is typically caused by an overgrowth of the Candida albicans fungus. The infection manifests as redness, inflammation, or tiny bumps on the tissue covered by the denture, often on the palate. Another factor is an allergic reaction to the acrylic or metal materials used in the denture, which can cause widespread burning and swelling.
Immediate Steps for Comfort and Relief
When gum soreness flares up, the most immediate action is to remove the denture temporarily to allow the stressed tissue to rest. Giving the gums a break from pressure and friction reduces inflammation and promotes healing. This is particularly important if a specific sore spot is visible, indicating trauma from the appliance.
You can soothe irritated tissues by rinsing your mouth several times a day with a warm saltwater solution. Dissolve about half a teaspoon of salt into warm water and gently swish the mixture around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. This technique helps reduce swelling and keeps the irritated areas clean, aiding the natural healing process.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be used temporarily to manage acute discomfort and inflammation. While the gums heal, adjust your diet to include softer foods, like mashed vegetables, soups, and yogurt, to minimize chewing forces. If the denture is loose, a sparse application of dental adhesive can stabilize the plate, but do not rely on adhesive to mask a severe fit issue.
Essential Denture Cleaning and Care
Long-term prevention of gum soreness depends on a consistent daily care routine for both the appliance and the mouth. Dentures must be removed and cleaned at least once daily using a soft-bristled or specific denture brush. Use a non-abrasive denture cleanser or mild soap, as regular toothpaste is often too harsh and can scratch the acrylic surface, creating spaces where bacteria and fungi can accumulate.
The appliance should be soaked overnight in water or a denture cleaning solution, as most materials need to stay moist to prevent warping and maintain their shape. Never use hot or boiling water, which can permanently distort the plastic material, leading to a poor fit and irritation.
The mouth’s tissues must also be cleaned before re-inserting the denture. Use a soft toothbrush or gauze to gently massage and clean the gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth to remove any residual plaque, food debris, or adhesive. Removing the dentures for an extended period, particularly overnight, gives the underlying gum tissue a period of uninterrupted rest.
Signs You Need Professional Dental Help
While home care and temporary adjustments can provide relief, certain symptoms require prompt attention from a dental professional. If soreness, irritation, or visible sores persist for more than two or three days despite home care, the underlying issue needs professional intervention. Schedule an appointment immediately if you notice sores or lesions that do not show signs of healing, or if you see visible discoloration, like a bright red or white patch, on the tissue under the denture.
Signs of a more advanced infection, such as fever, persistent swelling in the face or jaw, or bleeding gums, require urgent evaluation. Furthermore, if your denture begins to feel noticeably loose, slips frequently, or causes difficulty with chewing or speaking, the fit has changed and a professional adjustment or reline is necessary. Ignoring a poor fit can lead to chronic tissue damage and accelerate the loss of jawbone structure.