Dry mouth is more than simply feeling thirsty. For people who wear dentures, a persistent lack of saliva can make dentures feel uncomfortable, affect their stability and make everyday activities such as eating and speaking more difficult.
The condition, medically known as xerostomia, is relatively common and can develop for several reasons. Understanding the connection between dry mouth and dentures is the first step towards finding the right solution.
Why is saliva important for denture wearers?
Saliva plays an important role in keeping the mouth comfortable and healthy. It lubricates the gums and other soft tissues, helps with chewing and swallowing, and protects the mouth from irritation and infection.
For denture wearers, a thin layer of saliva between the denture and the gums can also help with comfort and retention. When there is not enough saliva, dentures may rub against dry tissues or feel less secure than usual.
Dry mouth may contribute to:
- Sore or irritated gums
- A burning or uncomfortable sensation
- Dentures rubbing against the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing food
- Problems speaking clearly
- Changes to taste
- Food collecting beneath the dentures
- An increased risk of oral thrush
- Cracked lips or soreness at the corners of the mouth
It is important not to assume that every problem is caused by dry mouth. Similar symptoms can also develop when dentures no longer fit correctly, so a professional assessment may be needed.
What causes a dry mouth?
There are several possible causes. According to the NHS, common causes include dehydration, certain medicines, anxiety, breathing through the mouth at night and some medical treatments.
Dry mouth can also be associated with health conditions such as diabetes and Sjögren’s syndrome.
Many prescription and over-the-counter medicines can reduce saliva production. These may include some medicines used to treat high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, allergies and bladder conditions.
If you think a medicine may be causing your symptoms, do not stop taking it without medical advice. Speak to your GP or pharmacist, who can review your medication and recommend suitable options.
How can dry mouth affect the fit of dentures?
A dry mouth does not physically change the shape of a denture, but it can change how the denture feels and functions.
Without sufficient saliva, there may be more friction between the denture and the gums. This can make a previously comfortable denture begin to feel sore or unstable. Some people may also start relying more heavily on denture adhesive.
However, persistent looseness should not automatically be blamed on dry mouth. The gums and jaw naturally change shape over time, which can cause a denture to become loose. A reline, adjustment or replacement denture may be more appropriate than continually applying additional adhesive.
What can help relieve dry mouth?
The right approach will depend on the cause, but the following measures may provide some relief.
Drink water regularly
Take frequent sips of water throughout the day and keep water nearby at night. Reducing excessive alcohol, caffeine and fizzy drinks may also help, as these can make dryness feel worse.
Try sugar-free gum or sweets
If you are able to chew safely, sugar-free gum or sweets may encourage the mouth to produce more saliva. Choose sugar-free products to reduce the risk of tooth decay, particularly if you still have some natural teeth.
Ask a pharmacist about dry-mouth products
Gels, sprays, tablets, lozenges and saliva substitutes are available. Not every product is suitable for everyone, so ask a pharmacist or dental professional which option would be most appropriate for you.
Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash
An alcohol-free mouthwash is generally a better choice for somebody experiencing dry mouth. Alcohol-containing products may increase the feeling of dryness or irritation.
Keep your dentures thoroughly clean
Clean your dentures every day using an appropriate denture-cleaning product and a soft denture brush. Avoid ordinary toothpaste unless specifically advised, as some toothpastes can be too abrasive for denture materials.
Cleaning the gums, tongue and any remaining natural teeth is equally important.
Remove dentures at night
Unless a dental professional has advised otherwise, remove your dentures before sleeping. This gives the gums time to rest and reduces the risk of irritation and infection.
When should you seek professional advice?
Arrange an assessment if your dentures have become uncomfortable, repeatedly cause sore spots or no longer feel as secure as they once did.
You should also speak to your GP, pharmacist or dental professional if:
- Your mouth remains dry for several weeks
- Dryness makes eating or speaking difficult
- Your mouth is painful, swollen, red or bleeding
- You notice persistent white patches
- You are struggling to eat properly
- You have ongoing changes to your sense of taste
- You think prescribed medication may be contributing to the problem
Persistent soreness should not be ignored. The solution might involve managing the dry mouth, adjusting the dentures or addressing a separate oral health issue.
Are your dentures contributing to the problem?
Dry mouth and an unsuitable denture fit can sometimes occur together. Treating the dryness may improve comfort, but it will not correct a denture that has become worn, damaged or poorly fitting.
At Harrogate Denture Clinic, we can assess the fit and condition of your dentures and explain the options available. These might include a professional adjustment, a reline or the creation of new bespoke dentures.
To arrange a free, no-pressure denture consultation with James, call 01423 451536 or contact Harrogate Denture Clinic online.