Are you developing sores on your gums due to wearing dentures? There are several reasons why this can happen, and once you figure out the most likely cause for your denture-related sores, you can take action to prevent any more from forming. Here's a look at the most common causes to consider.  

New dentures

If you just got your dentures, some soreness and rubbing is normal as your gums adapt to your new dental devices. Stick of soft, easy-to-chew foods for the next few weeks and give your body time to ease its way into adapting to the new dentures. In the meantime, you can rinse your mouth out with salt water once or twice per day to help alleviate soreness. If the sores become very red and inflamed or start exuding pus, contact your dentist as these are signs of infection. If they don't get better within about two weeks, you should also contact your dentist. Otherwise, if your dentures are new, you can count on the sores taking care of themselves as your mouth adapts.

Too loose a fit

If you've had your dentures for a while and they have just now started causing you sores, the problem may be that they fit too loosely. Your mouth and jaw bone structure can change shape over time, so even if your dentures fit you perfectly when you purchased them, they might not fit the best now. Any movement in your dentures causes friction, which can cause sores to form. If you feel your dentures wiggling around or are finding that you need to use more paste to keep them in place, it's time to visit your dentist and have your denture fit examined. Your dentist (go to websites like this for further assistance) can fit you for new dentures or adjust your existing ones so you don't experience any more sores.

Improper cleaning.

If you do not clean your dentures properly, they may begin to hang on to bacteria. Every time you put them in, they re-introduce this bacteria to your mouth, where it serves to weaken your gum tissue and make it easier for even the slightest bit of denture movement to cause sores. If you've been skimping on your cleaning lately, kick it up a notch and your problems with sores should subside. Make sure you're thoroughly brushing your dentures and storing them in antiseptic solution -- not just plain water -- each night. Make sure you're brushing your gums twice a day, too!