Finding out that your denture is broken can be infuriating. Whether the denture is cracked or otherwise damaged, a broken denture gets in the way of eating, talking, and smiling with confidence. As much as you may want to reach for the superglue, DIY fixes can do more damage than good and result in discomfort, oral health problems, and even more expensive damage later.
This guide will walk you through what to do with a broken denture, including how to repair a broken denture safely and when to call in the experts. Get your broken denture attended to quickly to prevent any additional complications, and remember, if you need fast service, options like 24-hour denture repair in OKC are sometimes available for emergencies. Contact Reflections Dental Care today for tailored advice from a friendly team!
Finding the Damage
The first step is to establish the degree of the breakage of your denture. The most common issue is a hairline crack in the acrylic base that will compromise the strength and fit of the denture. The second most common issue is a loose or totally broken-off tooth. The worst form of breakage is when the denture cracks in two – which is why “my dentures broke in half – how can I fix them?” is such a popular search online.
Most commonly, this occurs from dropping it or chewing force. Understanding how much of a break you have will enable you to know whether a temporary repair can be done, or whether you need to see your dentist immediately.
Temporary DIY Repair Steps
In case you are in a location where you cannot access a dentist immediately, you may wish to attempt a temporary repair. You can utilize a denture repair kit that is available for this task, and these can be found at most pharmacies. They have dental-grade adhesive and materials that are safe to place in your mouth. Never utilize household glues, since they contain toxic chemicals and can irreparably damage the denture in such a manner that a professional repair will not be feasible.
Follow the instructions on the kit carefully, getting pieces clean, dry, and perfectly aligned before adding adhesive. This is a temporary fix to get you through a day or two, but for long-term solutions, it’s best to search for ‘broken denture repair near me’ to find qualified professionals, such as Reflections Dental Care.
When to Seek an Expert’s Help
A temporary repair is not a permanent one. You always should make an appointment to have your dentist or prosthodontist come in as soon as possible if your denture breaks. It’s particularly important if the break has created sharp edges that will cut your gums, or if the denture no longer fits properly. An ill-fitting denture can lead to sores, chewing problems, and even bone loss in the long run.
Can cracked dentures be repaired? In many cases, yes – but a professional has the right equipment and training to examine the damage and construct a safe, solid repair that will restore your prosthesis’s function and comfort. In other instances, a simple repair will not suffice, and your dentist might suggest a replacement.
The Need for Professional Care
Even though it is troublesome, a cracked denture is worth having properly repaired for your oral health alone, not to mention your overall health. Professional repair will give you a strong, comfortable, and safe denture to wear.
It is also extremely important to continue with follow-up appointments to your dentist for check-ups in order to maintain your dentures and overall oral health in good shape. They can catch any small problems further along the way before they are major issues, so you can prevent breaks down the road. Professional care from Reflections Dental Care will help you maintain that healthy and confident smile for years to come.