For some people, dentures are a necessary part of daily life. Dentures can brighten the smile, and boost the confidence of those who wear them. But can wearing dentures cause bad breath?
What Causes Bad Breath?
Food particles can too easily get caught in between dentures and gums, causing a chain reaction, ultimately resulting in bacterial overgrowth in the mouth.
Oral bacteria feed on saliva, oral tissue, and food left over from eating. While some of these bacteria aid in digestion, salivation, and combat other, more harmful bacteria, much of the food we eat is highly appetizing to plaque forming, odor-releasing oral bacteria. Bacteria releasing sulfurous gasses indulge on the sugars in our diet, causing bad breath more quickly, while bacteria that thrive on acidic compounds build plaque over time.
Plaque mixes with acid and saliva, and hardens. As it hardens, it seals itself to the tooth's enamel, forming a permanent film. This film continues to feed the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Tooth decay is a major cause of bad breath.
How Can I Prevent Bad Breath With Dentures?
It is very important to make sure the dentures you are wearing are the right fit for you; if you are wearing dentures that don't fit properly, make sure to schedule an appointment with our office today. Ill-fitting dentures can cause sores in the mouth, leaving oral tissue vulnerable to infection and Clean your dentures regularly using a denture cleaner, and a soft bristle brush.
Any food remnants and/or bacteria left behind on the dentures must be cleared to ensure there is no bacterial overgrowth. Using a strong denture adhesive is integral to preventing food from being lodged between denture and gum. Our dentists can recommend the best denture adhesive for you. If you are experiencing bad breath with dentures, make an appointment with us today!
