What Should I Do if My Dentures Break?
Dentures are the most effective solution for widespread tooth loss. Dentures replace up to an entire arch of teeth to restore oral function and enhance the smile’s appearance. Dentures are durable restorations strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of usual oral functions.
Despite their sturdy construction, dentures are susceptible to damage. Broken dentures should not be worn because they cannot effectively and safely perform oral functions. The dentists at the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute, which serves Troy, MI, Birmingham, MI, Bloomfield, MI, and surrounding areas, advise individuals on what to do if dentures break to restore the function and aesthetics of the smile.
Steps to Take if Your Dentures Break
Like natural teeth, dentures can wear down and develop minor imperfections over time. Insubstantial blemishes, like discoloration or a small chip, do not require immediate attention. However, when dentures crack or break, individuals must address the situation promptly. We recommend taking these steps if your dentures break:
- Contact the dentist and schedule an appointment
- Clean the dentures and store them (and any broken pieces) in a sterile container to bring to your dentist appointment
- Refrain from repairing the dentures with household items, like superglue, as this can cause further damage
- If an emergency dental appointment is not available, consider using a denture repair kit to temporarily fix the restoration (when appropriate)
Do Denture Repair Kits Work?
People are often tempted to repair dentures themselves, especially if they cannot see a dentist immediately. Household items should never be used to repair dentures. Over-the-counter denture repair kits can work on minor damage but their effectiveness is limited. Dentures repair kits are most appropriate for resealing or repairing small cracks. They can bond missing teeth in place or hold together broken denture pieces, but the fix is temporary. Denture repair kits are best for fixing dentures until the patient can see the dentist. When using a denture repair kit, it’s essential to follow instructions precisely to avoid causing further damage to the dentures.
Can a Dentist Repair My Dentures?
A dentist can often repair broken dentures. However, each break is different, so a dental appointment is necessary to determine the most appropriate solution. Some denture damage can be repaired in-office while some require repair in a dental laboratory (which can take several days or up to a couple of weeks). There are also situations where denture damage is so extensive that replacement is the only viable solution.
Dentures Replacement
When denture damage is extensive or multiple teeth have broken off, our dentists may recommend denture replacement. Our dentists can provide a traditional, removable denture to replace a broken restoration. We also offer implant-supported dentures.
Implant-supported dentures have the support of dental implants, tiny titanium screws that fuse with the jaw and act as a foundation for dentures and other dental restorations. Implant-supported dentures offer many advantages over traditional dentures, including greater stability, enhanced comfort, and long-lasting durability.
Contact Us
The dentists at the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute are happy to assist patients with repairing or replacing broken dentures so they enjoy full oral function and a beautiful smile. To determine the most appropriate solution for your broken dentures, contact our dental practice and schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.
