How to Get Rid of Denture Sores Easily and Effectively

1. How to Get Rid of Denture Sores Easily and Effectively

While dentures can restore the appearance and function of your smile, they can sometimes cause discomfort, especially when they’re new or not fitting quite right. One common issue is denture sores, which can leave your gums irritated and tender. If you’re experiencing this kind of pain, you’re not alone. More importantly, there are plenty of ways to find relief.

Let’s explore the causes of denture sores, how to treat them at home, and when it’s time to visit your dentist.

What Causes Denture Sores?

Denture sores are typically the result of friction or pressure from your dentures rubbing against your gums. This can happen when:

• Your dentures don’t fit correctly
• You’re wearing them for too long without breaks
• Food particles become trapped between the denture and your gums
• You have poor oral hygiene, leading to inflammation or infection
• You’re adjusting to new dentures for the first time

Sores often appear as red, swollen areas or even small ulcers on the gums, tongue, or inside the cheeks. These can be painful and make it difficult to eat or speak comfortably.

Home Remedies for Denture Sores

If you’ve developed sore spots from your dentures, there are several ways you can manage the discomfort at home:

• Saltwater rinses: Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Denture adhesive: Using a small amount of denture adhesive can help stabilize your dentures and reduce movement that leads to rubbing.
• Remove your dentures at night: Giving your gums a break while you sleep allows sore spots to heal and helps prevent further irritation.
• Cold compress: Applying a cool compress to the outside of your mouth can reduce swelling and ease pain.
• Aloe vera gel: Applying pure aloe vera (ensure it’s safe for oral use) may provide soothing relief for irritated gums.
• Over-the-counter pain relief: Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen may help reduce discomfort until the soreness subsides.

It’s important to clean your dentures thoroughly each day and rinse your mouth after eating to prevent trapped food from aggravating sore spots.

When to See Your Dentist

If your denture sores persist longer than a few days, worsen over time, or are accompanied by signs of infection (such as pus, fever, or extreme pain), it’s time to contact your dentist. You may need an adjustment to your dentures to improve their fit or identify another underlying issue.

Denture sores should never be ignored—especially if they make daily life uncomfortable. A properly fitted denture should feel natural, not painful.

A few small changes can make a big difference in your comfort while wearing dentures. Don’t wait too long to get the relief you need!

About the Practice

At Village Dental in Reno, NV, Dr. Megan M. Cercek provides compassionate, comprehensive dental care. Whether you’re exploring options for dentures in Reno or need help managing discomfort from existing ones, Dr. Cercek and her experienced team are here to help you smile with confidence.

Give us a call at (775) 827-1113 or request an appointment online.