Can You Sleep with Your Dentures In? The Pros and Cons Explained

by | May 14, 2025 | Crowns, Bridges, and Dentures, Dentures, Gum Disease, Healthy Dental Habits

Can You Sleep with Your Dentures In The Pros and Cons Explained

We often hear this question at ABC Dental: “Can I sleep with my dentures in?” The short answer is—yes, you can—but whether you should is another story. Let’s cover some of the pros and cons of sleeping in dentures, backed by expert advice and current dental research.

The Pros of Sleeping with Dentures

  1. Confidence and Security
    • Some patients feel more comfortable or confident keeping their dentures in overnight, especially if they live with a partner or are concerned about appearance.
  2. Jaw Support
    • For those with new dentures, wearing them overnight during the initial adjustment phase may help maintain jaw alignment and reduce discomfort.
  3. Sleep Apnea Devices
    • In some rare cases, specially designed dentures may help maintain oral structure for patients with obstructive sleep apnea—but these are specialized prosthetics, not typical dentures.

The Cons of Sleeping with Dentures

  1. Increased Risk of Infections
    • A 2015 study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that sleeping with dentures was associated with a higher risk of pneumonia in elderly patients. Bacteria and fungi can grow and thrive in the space between the denture and your gums overnight.
  2. Gum and Bone Health
    • Removing dentures at night gives your gums time to recover from the pressure of the prosthetic. Continuous wear can lead to sore spots, inflammation, and accelerated bone loss over time.
  3. Denture Longevity
    • Nighttime wear increases wear and tear on dentures, which could shorten their lifespan or lead to more frequent relining and repairs.

Best Practice: Remove and Clean Nightly

Most dentists, including the American College of Prosthodontists, recommend removing dentures at night. This allows your oral tissues to rest. It’s also the perfect time to soak and clean your dentures, which helps prevent bacteria buildup and bad odors.

Pro Tip: Soaking dentures in a cleanser or mild solution overnight also keeps them moist, helping them retain their shape.

What If You Really Want to Keep Them In?

If you feel strongly about wearing your dentures to bed, talk to your dentist. They may recommend:

  • Adjustments to improve comfort
  • Night guards for denture protection
  • Extra hygiene routines to reduce health risks

While you can sleep with your dentures in, the healthier choice is to take them out at night. Giving your mouth a break helps prevent infections, preserves your gums and bones, and extends the life of your dentures. When in doubt, consult your dentist to create a care routine that works for your lifestyle.

Have more questions? We’re here to help.

Dentures are a personal journey, and our Chicago dental team is here to walk you through every step. Schedule a consultation with ABC Dental to explore your options and see how modern dentures can change your life.  We offer FREE SECOND OPINIONS. We’re open nights and weekends. Book Your Appointment with one of our top Chicago dentists: Schedule online or Call us at 773-481-2200