Why Are My Dentures Cutting Into My Gums?

Experiencing some sore spots or discomfort with your dentures can be alarming, but it’s usually harmless. The initial adjustment period for dentures often brings mild soreness or irritation.

However, persistent or intense discomfort is something else entirely. In this article, we’ll discuss denture pain, why it happens, and what you can do to treat it.

Why are My Dentures Cutting Into My Gums?

As mentioned above, most people develop sore or sensitive gums when wearing dentures, and it takes time to adjust to them. 

However, persistent sore gums can be a sign of ill-fitting dentures. The dentures might be cutting into your gum tissue, especially if the pain worsens with time.

You’ll need to schedule an appointment with your dentist to adjust your dentures and address other potential problems.

How to Treat Denture Pain

If you’re experiencing persistent denture pain, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. They can determine the underlying cause of the issue and treat it accordingly. 

Some treatment options for denture pain include:

• Adjusting high spots on a denture with a drill
• Placing a soft reline material on the inside of the denture
• Sending the denture back to the laboratory for a denture rebase
• Completely remaking the denture

Home Remedies for Denture Sores

Generally, you don’t need to see a dentist for moderate denture pain that comes and goes. Here are a few things you can try to improve your comfort during the adjustment period:

• Eat soft foods and avoid hard or sticky foods.
• Practice good oral hygiene to prevent tartar and plaque buildup.
• Remove your dentures before bed.
• Cut up harder foods into small pieces and chew with your back teeth.
• Use a topical anesthetic that contains benzocaine.
• Use warm salt water rinses to remove food particles and bacteria.
• Take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medication.
• Soak your dentures overnight in mild denture cleaner or water.
• Apply aloe vera to the gum line to soothe irritation and provide relief.

What Causes Denture Pain and Sores?

In addition to ill-fitting dentures, food particles can get trapped between them and your gums, leading to discomfort. You can avoid this by cleaning your dentures properly and removing food particles before bacteria accumulate.

Once bacteria and food particles mix, they can create plaque, which makes wearing dentures uncomfortable. Plaque buildup can cause other oral health problems, like gum disease and infection.

Lastly, denture stomatitis (oral thrush) is a fungal mouth infection that causes gum inflammation and mouth sores. To reduce your risk of denture stomatitis, avoid wearing your dentures overnight. 

When Should I See a Dentist for Denture Pain?

Some signs you need new dentures or adjustments include:

• Broken, cracked, or chipped artificial teeth
• Problems with chewing or speech changes
• Discomfort or pain
• Changes to your facial shape
• Loose or tight-fitting dentures
• Gum Irritation, bleeding, or inflammation
• Oral sores
• Stains or persistent odors

How Should Your Dentures Fit?

Top dentures should fit well due to suction to the roof of the mouth. Meanwhile, bottom dentures should float above the gums. 

Partial dentures should stay in line with your natural teeth without significant movement. If your dentures are too tight or loose, contact your dentist.

How to Prevent Denture Pain

Good oral hygiene and denture care are the best ways to prevent denture pain. Remove your dentures before going to sleep and keep them clean.

Some tips to keep your dentures clean include:

• Rinsing your dentures with warm water after meals
• Using a denture-cleaning solution
• Brushing your dentures daily with a denture brush and mild soap
• Regular dental checkups