What Should You Do If Your Dentures Break?
Dr. Irene Bokser, Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, specializes in conservative treatment of gum disease, including cosmetic procedures to enhance smile, and dental implants to replace single or multiple missing teeth. Dr. Bokser performs all aspects of periodontics and implantology. She also diagnoses... more
Dentures are designed to be long-lasting. They must survive eating and chewing much like natural teeth, but they do not last forever. With proper denture maintenance, they can last between five and seven years. Accidents do happen, and broken dentures are unavoidable. If your dentures break, see your dentist instead of attempting to repair them at home. Follow these tips to help prevent future broken dentures.
What Causes Denture Breakage?
Dropping dentures while cleaning, inserting, or removing them is a typical cause of broken dentures. Dentures can also break or fracture if they are not properly fitted or have minor flaws in their base, like scratches or notches. When dropped, dentures with a sturdy, impact-resistant base are less prone to break. Even if you properly care for your dentures, they might wear down over time due to repetitive use and stress.
How Do I Repair My Broken Dentures?
Even if your denture problem appears small, DIY denture repair is strongly not recommended. If you attempt to fix your denture on your own, you may end up causing more damage. Some DIY kits can harm your dentures to the point that they must be replaced. Furthermore, many denture-repair kits contain harsh chemicals you do not want in or around your mouth. It’s only a temporary solution until you get to see your doctor.
Bring your dentures to your prosthodontist or to your dentist for repair. They can diagnose what is wrong with your dentures and fix them properly because they made them. Having your dentures professionally repaired ensures that they fit correctly and eliminates future discomfort and chewing issues.
What Can I Do to Keep My Dentures from Breaking?
Taking care of your dentures can help them last longer and resist the wear and tear they experience daily.
- If you drop your dentures, wipe them with a folded towel or a bowl of water. This will keep your dentures from shattering if you drop them inadvertently. Do not immerse your dentures in hot water, as this can cause them to bend or crack;
- Unless otherwise ordered by your dentist or prosthodontist, do not leave your dentures in overnight. This allows your mouth and the surrounding gum tissue and bones to relax, putting less pressure on your dentures;
- Dentures, like natural teeth, require daily cleaning to eliminate residual food and bacteria and to prevent discoloration. Brush the whole surface area of your dentures, including the section that touches your gums, using a denture cleanser;
- Soak your dentures in a denture-cleaning solution on a daily basis. This removes any remaining bacteria, keeping your dentures fresh and preventing foul breath;
- Always follow the manufacturer's directions and remember to properly rinse before replacing your dentures;
- To avoid harming your dentures, avoid using bleach or other household agents on them.
- Soak your dentures overnight to keep them supple and moist and to prevent them from drying out.
How Often Should I See a Dentist?
Visit your dentist regularly so they can evaluate your dentures and ensure the health of your mouth, gums, and tongue. If your dental specialist notices any issues, you can fix them before they worsen and hurt your mouth.
If your dentures break, crack, or chip, make an appointment with your dentist or prosthodontist as soon as possible. You might be able to get your dentures fixed that day. However, in some situations, your dentures may need to be repaired in a lab. In any case, living without your dentures is inconvenient; therefore, the sooner the situation is resolved, the better.
