The Consequences of Not Wearing Your Dentures Daily
- michaelgrishindent
- Apr 23
- 4 min read
At Grishin Denture Specialist, located in Spokane, WA, we emphasize the importance of consistent denture use to maintain oral health, functionality, and comfort. Many denture wearers assume that skipping days or only wearing dentures occasionally won’t have any negative effects. However, failing to wear your dentures daily can lead to significant oral changes, discomfort, and long-term complications that affect both your dentures and your overall health.
Bone Loss and Jaw Changes
Wearing dentures helps maintain the natural structure of your jaw and facial muscles. Without the constant presence of dentures, the alveolar bone—the part of the jaw that holds teeth or dentures in place—begins to shrink due to lack of stimulation. This process, known as bone resorption, leads to:
• Shrunken Facial Appearance: Over time, the jawbone deteriorates, causing a sunken look around the mouth, making individuals appear older.
• Loose-Fitting Dentures: As the jawbone shrinks, dentures no longer fit properly, leading to discomfort and instability.
• Difficulty in Future Adjustments: The more bone loss that occurs, the harder it becomes to adjust or refit dentures for a comfortable and secure fit.
Changes in Gum Tissue and Oral Discomfort
Gums adapt to the presence of dentures. When dentures aren’t worn regularly, the gums shift, making it harder to wear them comfortably when needed. Long-term gaps in wear can cause:
• Tissue Irritation: When dentures are reintroduced after extended periods without use, the gums may become sore or inflamed.
• Uneven Pressure Points: Dentures that were once comfortable may feel uneven or unstable due to changes in the soft tissue.
• Increased Risk of Oral Infections: Prolonged gaps in wearing dentures can lead to fungal infections like denture stomatitis, causing redness, swelling, and discomfort.
Difficulty in Eating and Speaking
Wearing dentures consistently helps with proper chewing and speech adaptation. When dentures are not worn regularly, wearers may experience:
• Weakened Chewing Muscles: The muscles used for chewing weaken when dentures aren’t worn daily, making it difficult to eat certain foods when they are put back in.
• Speech Impairment: Irregular wear disrupts speech adaptation, leading to slurred or unclear speech when dentures are reinserted.
• Increased Risk of Digestive Issues: Poor chewing efficiency due to inconsistent denture use can contribute to digestive discomfort and improper nutrient absorption.
Risk of Denture Warping and Poor Fit
Dentures are designed to be worn daily and kept in a properly maintained environment. When left unused for extended periods, they may:
• Warp or Change Shape: Acrylic dentures can become misshapen when they dry out, making them uncomfortable or impossible to wear.
• Require Frequent Adjustments: Lack of wear can cause dentures to feel too tight or loose when reintroduced, leading to the need for adjustments or replacements.
• Increase in Repair Costs: Misaligned or warped dentures often require repairs or complete replacement, which could have been avoided with consistent wear.
Psychological and Social Impacts
Wearing dentures regularly is essential not only for physical health but also for self-confidence and social interactions. When dentures are not worn daily:
• Social Anxiety Increases: Many individuals feel self-conscious about their appearance without dentures, leading to withdrawal from social events and lower self-esteem.
• Oral Function Declines: The longer dentures are not worn, the harder it becomes to readjust to daily use, leading to frustration and discomfort.
• Loss of Confidence in Speaking and Smiling: Wearing dentures daily helps maintain a natural smile and reduces hesitation in conversations or public settings.
Proper Denture Care to Ensure Longevity
To maintain the functionality, fit, and comfort of dentures, regular wear is essential. Here are key care tips:
✔️ Wear Them Daily – Keep dentures in place to preserve gum health and jawbone structure.
✔️ Store Them Properly – When not in use, dentures should be soaked in a dentist-recommended solution to prevent drying and warping.
✔️ Maintain Oral Hygiene – Clean both dentures and gums daily to prevent bacterial buildup and infections.
✔️ Schedule Regular Check-Ups – Visiting a specialized denturer like Denturist Michael Grishin ensures optimal denture fit and functionality.
Serving Spokane & Surrounding Areas
At Grishin Denture Specialist, we provide expert care for patients throughout Spokane, Spokane Valley, Cheney, Deer Park, and Liberty Lake. Whether you need a new set of dentures, adjustments, or professional maintenance, we are committed to delivering high-quality, custom-fitted solutions for long-term comfort and function.
Conclusion
Skipping days or extended periods without wearing your dentures can lead to serious complications, including bone loss, gum irritation, speech difficulties, and poor denture fit. Wearing dentures consistently maintains oral structure, improves comfort, and preserves overall dental health. For expert denture solutions, trust Grishin Denture Specialist to keep your smile functional, confident, and long-lasting. If you’re searching for a “denturist near me”, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
For helpful tips on what to eat after getting new dentures, check out our guide to denture-friendly foods.
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