Having dentures can be challenging, especially at first. Many patients have issues adjusting to the size, shape, and orientation of dentures. It may take awhile for patients to become accustomed to having dentures as well as the cleaning and care routine for dentures. Whether you are new to dentures or a seasoned pro, you must know this important fact about them.
Falling asleep with your dentures in puts the elderly at a greatly increased risk for pneumonia. Whether you are a denture-wearer yourself or a caretaker for your elderly mother or grandmother, then you must be aware of the risks. Dental professionals usually recommend that people take out their dentures when they go to bed and use that time to clean them. But, in one study, they found that denture wearers who left their dentures in overnight doubled their risk of getting pneumonia.
The science behind this is that the bacteria and microorganisms that grow on your dentures while you sleep can cause inflammation in your mouth and other parts of your body. While dentures can help restore a lost smile and give back the function to eat and maintain a normal lifestyle, they come with risks too. Speak to your dentist about the best practices of cleaning and taking of your dentures for optimal oral and overall health.
http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/dentures/article/ada-10-study-discourages-sleep-with-dentures