Dentures are popular for rebuilding smiles. Whether replacing several teeth or the entire dental arch, many people enjoy the benefits of this classic, reliable restoration. They can even last up to a decade with proper care! However, they are not damage-proof.
Even though dentures are not your natural teeth, if they break, the impact on your daily life can feel just as urgent as if someone broke a tooth. You might ask, “Can broken dentures be repaired?” Read on to learn about why you should visit your dentist when they break and how they can help you.
Why Did My Dentures Break?
There are several factors that may have led to a broken denture. The most common cause is just the wear and tear that comes along with daily chewing. They are very durable, so that it may take years, but the longer you wear a set, the more likely it is to break. Even the type of foods you eat can wear down a set a little faster. Acidic, sugary, hot, and cold foods can do minor damage over a long period of time.
Over time, the fit of your dentures may start to change. When they don’t fit properly, they can move around your mouth. Lack of stability can cause excessive stress on pressure points, leading to a crack or break. They can even accidentally fall out of your mouth during everyday activities and hit the ground or a hard counter. Additionally, when cleaning your dentures, they can be a little slippery, so it may feel as though they can jump out of your hands.
Why Are Broken Dentures a Dental Emergency?
Dentures are custom-made to fit your mouth. A small crack or chip can change how they rest on your gums. That misalignment can lead to pressure points, sore spots, and even cuts along the soft tissues of your mouth. Over time, these minor injuries can become infected!
Not only that but wearing broken dentures can also alter the way you speak and eat. You might be tempted to do some repairs at home, but these aren’t the best option. Many people consider superglue a quick fix, but this adhesive is not safe for oral use and can cause serious issues. Even “denture repair kits” you may see online are not recommended by dentists. You wouldn’t wait to visit your dentist if you broke a natural tooth, so your dentures deserve the same treatment! At your dental office, they have methods to restore your prosthetics to their original shape.
What Can My Dentist Do About My Broken Dentures?
Thankfully, your dentist can do a few things to get your dentures restored. Depending on the severity of the break and where it is, they can either:
- Repair: In some cases, your dentist can fix them during the same office visit! If not, your dentures can be sent to a dental lab for restoration.
- Reline: This process helps adjust the fit of your dentures. More material is added to the surface to make it more stable and comfortable.
- Replace: Serious breaks or damage may require you to get a new denture.
Even though dentures are not your natural teeth, a broken denture is still a dental emergency! Call your dentist if this situation ever arises so they can help you get back to a happy smile.
About the Practice
At Buda Dental Professionals, we are passionate about dentistry and helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Our doctors Dr. Ashley Strickland and Dr. Jason Carlyon have over nearly four decades of combined experience! This has given them the knowledge to provide the best care for your oral health. We offer a range of restorative treatments like dentures. We ensure that they fit naturally with your smile and are custom-made for you. Whether you’re looking to replace missing teeth or have broken dentures, we’re here to help you; schedule an appointment or call us at (512) 295-5555.