What may cause it?
Local pressure, friction, changed fit or another mucosal condition.
← All explanationsDenture sore spot
Why has a denture started to rub?
A denture sore spot is irritated or injured oral tissue caused by local pressure or friction. Changed fit, an unsuitable border or loading can contribute. Pain beneath dentures does not always have the same cause and persistent symptoms need examination.
For dental trainees & teams
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Pressure and friction
A small contact point can become painful during chewing. This may follow a new fitting or later changes in the mouth.
Check the cause
The dental team examines the tissues, denture fit and bite. Redness or burning can have other causes and are not automatically pressure sores.
Adjust precisely
Depending on the findings, a contact point or overall fit is corrected. Do not grind the denture yourself. With severe pain, ask by phone about further wear.
At a glance
What is the next step?
Prompt examination of fit and tissues rather than self-grinding.
What happens afterwards?
Follow care and wear instructions, and have non-healing areas reassessed.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. Straight to the point.
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Often confused
Pressure sore or inflamed mucosa?
A pressure sore is locally mechanical. Inflammation under dentures may involve plaque or fungi; both can coexist.
Quick answers
Should I just tolerate the pain?
No. Severe or persistent pain warrants review. If wearing is impossible, remove the denture and seek advice promptly.
Should I wear it before the appointment?
That may help identify a pressure point but should not mean enduring severe pain. Ask the practice beforehand.
What if the area does not heal?
Persistent or recurring tissue changes need reassessment rather than being indefinitely labelled a denture sore.
At the practice
For your consultation
A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:
Is the pain related to fit, bite or another change in the oral tissues?
At the practice, findings, personal wishes and possible next steps are discussed through a consultation and examination.
A precise description helps: where it rubs, since when and during speaking or chewing.
Have a sore spot checkedChoose an appointment on DoctolibLearning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge
Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.
- Pressure ulceration
- An open sore caused by sustained mechanical pressure.
- Occlusion
- The contacts between upper and lower teeth when biting together.
- Denture border
- The outer edge, whose length and contour must suit the oral tissues.
Know the difference
Redness alone does not establish a diagnosis. Healing should be checked after adjustment too.
Sources and context
Editorial research: 23 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.