Yikes! My Denture Is Full Of WHAT?!!!

Posted on May 21, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

These days, Americans are more aware of keeping bacteria at bay by regular hand-washing and proper food handling. Yet, little publicity has been devoted to the bacterial presence in dentures and partials.

The material that holds the replacement teeth of dentures and partials is porous. This means that bacteria can become embedded in it. Not only do bacteria reproduce at a rapid rate, these organisms eat, and therefore produce waste, continually in your mouth.

This bacterial buildup can result in painful inflammation, cracking at the corners of the mouth, redness and soreness. But, once established, disease-causing microorganisms (like Candida albicans, for example) won’t go away on their own. Ridding them may require powerful antifungal medications.

Full and partial denture-wearers must rinse their appliances after every meal and soak them in disinfectant solutions nightly. Not only is this process burdensome, many people sleep in their dentures and partials. The warm, moist, dark environment this provides is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. As bacteria builds, the eventual result is an infection called periodontitis. This form of gum disease can result in painful and serious problems, such as increased inflammation in the body.

Yet, oral bacteria can cause devastating damage far beyond one’s mouth. Research has shown that the bacteria of gum disease can become bloodborne throughout the body via tears in gum tissue. These bacteria can trigger (or increase) inflammation that research has shown to contribute to coronary artery disease, diabetes, preterm babies, stroke, and arthritis.

Because dental implants are held by the jaw bone, they restore chewing comfort and biting stability. Dental implants allow you to eat the foods you love and laugh without worry. Dental implants help to preserve the jaw bone by recreating the stimulation once provided by natural tooth roots. They are safe and, when properly selected, placed and maintained, will last all your life.

If you’re ready to rid yourself of dentures and partials, call (828) 274-9440 to discuss the dental implant alternative. Like other adults, your life will enjoy many, many advantages!