IN DENTURE WEARERS

Dentures are removable false teeth that fit snugly over the gums to replace missing teeth. They can be complete (a full set of upper and/or lower teeth) or partial (replacing one tooth or a few missing teeth).

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CAUSES?

Mouth ulcers can develop when you are fitted with new dentures, or when old dentures are worn or no longer fit you properly. Over time, your gums and jawbone may become smaller and your dentures can become loose.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Sore spots and mouth ulcers can occur where the denture rubs against your gums. You may also find that you have cracked or continually sore corners of your mouth.

WHAT ARE MY TREATMENT OPTIONS?

The best thing to do is make sure that you see your dentist regularly, so that they can keep an eye out for any problems with your dentures. If you do get mouth ulcers or sore spots, you will need to check with the dentist whether they need to adjust the fit of your dentures. Otherwise, you can use a mouth ulcer gel to relieve pain and inflammation and help fight infection.

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT IT?

The main goals for treating your mouth ulcer and sore spots are to relieve your pain, reduce inflammation and help fight infection. There are two products in the bonjela range, designed to help relieve mouth ulcers. Both are suitable for use in adults.

Bonjela Adult – sugar-free, clear, almost colourless, aniseed-flavoured gel for the relief of pain, discomfort and inflammation caused by common mouth ulcers and cold sores. It helps to fight minor mouth infection and aid healing of sore spots and ulcers due to dentures and braces.

(Medicine for adults over the age of 16)

Always read the label.

Bonjela Cool Mint Gel – sugar-free mint-flavoured gel for the relief of pain, discomfort and inflammation caused by common mouth ulcers and cold sores. It helps to fight minor mouth infection and aid healing of sore spots and ulcers due to dentures and braces.

(Medicine for adults over the age of 16)

Always read the label.

TOP TIPS?

1. Brush your dentures with toothpaste or soap and water twice a day and soak them in denture cleaner.

2. Keeping your mouth clean is as important as making sure your dentures are clean. If you have a partial denture, you should also brush your remaining teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to prevent tooth decay, gum disease and other dental problems.

3. You can leave your dentures out at night but keep them moist with a denture-cleanser soaking solution or water, so they do not dry out or lose their shape.

4. Visit your dentist regularly so that they can check any remaining teeth are healthy as well as your gums and dentures.