Can Dentures Get Cavities? Common Myths and Facts Revealed

So, can dentures get cavities? Let’s rip off the band-aid: dentures cannot get cavities. They’re made from materials like acrylic and resin, not enamel. No enamel means no decay. Simple, right? But while that myth is easy to bust, what’s not so simple is everything else people believe—or get completely wrong—about denture care. Let’s set the record straight and make sure your smile stays in top shape, with or without natural teeth.

Dentures Need Love Too

Although dentures aren’t vulnerable to tooth decay like real teeth, they still demand just as much care. Why? Because oral bacteria, plaque, and food particles can still build up. These love to get trapped in the crevices of your dentures and settle into your soft tissues if you're not cleaning properly. Skipping care isn’t just gross—it can lead to gum disease, bad breath, infections, and even accelerate bone loss.

Not Your Grandma’s Dental Tech

Thanks to advancements in materials and technologies, dentures can look and feel surprisingly natural. Today’s models don’t just restore your smile—they help you eat, speak, and laugh with confidence. High-quality denture options are custom-fitted and built to maintain a snug fit, though that fit can shift over time as your mouth changes. Regular adjustments help ensure your dentures last and function comfortably.

Why Your Dentist Still Matters

You don’t stop seeing your dentist regularly just because you’re wearing dentures. In fact, it’s more important than ever to visit your dentist every 6 months. They’ll check for sore spots, inspect your soft tissues, monitor oral health, and make sure your dentures aren’t doing more harm than good. Think of them as your smile’s pit crew—minus the tire iron.

Cleaning Isn’t Optional

You wouldn’t go to bed with a dirty face, so why go to bed without cleaning your dentures? Always remove your dentures every night and give them a proper scrub using a soft-bristled toothbrush. This helps keep your dentures clean, dislodge stuck food, and reduce plaque buildup. Avoid whitening toothpaste (it’s too abrasive), and stick with denture cleansers to avoid scratching the surface.

Soak While You Sleep

When you soak your dentures at night, you’re doing more than giving your gums a break—you’re helping to kill any bacteria missed during brushing. Think of the soaking solution as your denture’s spa day. It rehydrates the material and reduces warping, especially if you keep your dentures in an overnight solution. Just remember: dry dentures = brittle dentures.

Sleeping with Your Dentures? Let’s Talk.

Here’s the hard truth: sleeping with your dentures is a bad idea. When soft tissues aren’t given time to recover, irritation and even fungal infections can crop up. Plus, dentures in your mouth all night can increase the risk of pneumonia in older adults. Remove your dentures at night not just for hygiene—but to give your gums the rest they deserve.

Bad Habits to Break If You Have Dentures

Let’s get honest: bad habits can damage your dentures. Think chewing on pens, using your dentures to open packaging (yes, we see you), or forgetting to take your dentures out at night. These habits can damage the fit, the look, and your overall oral health. A little care now saves you from a costly re-fit or replacement later.

How Long Do Dentures Last?

With proper care, dentures can last for 5 to 7 years before needing to be replaced. They aren’t forever—but they are durable, especially if you care for your dentures right. That includes brushing daily, soaking nightly, and getting them checked every 6 months—similar to how long dental implants last.

Wearing Your Dentures Shouldn’t Be a Chore

You don’t have to white-knuckle your way through life worrying you’ll get caught without their teeth. But like anything else, good habits make a big difference. Removing your dentures at night, cleaning regularly, and working with a trusted dental team means you’ll enjoy more comfort, better blood circulation to your gums, and fewer surprises—whether you choose dentures or explore dental implants vs dentures as your long-term solution.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you’re thinking about how to get dentures, already wear dentures, or just need to double-check your routine, we’re here to help. Don’t hesitate to request an appointment with our friendly team today. We'll make sure your dentures feel great and your mouth and body stay healthy.

Because your smile deserves expert care—whether it’s made of natural teeth or the best materials modern dentistry can offer.