Broken Dentures: When to Get Them Replaced

Dentures are artificial teeth made to replace missing teeth. These devices fit comfortably over the gums and eliminate potential problems caused by gaps. You should take proper care of your dentures to prevent them from getting damaged or broken. Broken or damaged dentures can be repaired, but sometimes these appliances may need to be replaced.

Denture replacements

People should handle dentures carefully. A break or crack in a denture can cause many problems. It can impede everyday activities such as eating, speaking properly and smiling. There are multiple reasons why a denture can break.

Broken or damaged dentures

Dentures usually break or become damaged when they are dropped on hard surfaces. This is not unusual since removable dentures are taken out of the mouth occasionally especially before sleeping. A denture is very delicate and can easily break if it is dropped even a few inches on a hard surface. Sometimes, dentures may even slip out of the mouth. Standing over a sink filled with water or a folded towel when handling a denture is advisable. Patients should also make sure they do not bend the dentures or damage the clasps or plastic when cleaning them.

Dentists always advise patients to follow all the instructions they provide. Dentures should fit in place with relative ease. A partial denture can break if a patient bites down to force it into position. This can either break or bend the clasps.

Denture adjustments

A patient should visit a dentist when dentures break, chip, crack or even if a denture feels loose. Only a dentist can fix a broken or damaged denture. A person who does not have proper training cannot repair dentures. People should not try to adjust dentures themselves because this can harm both the denture and the health of an individual. Using over-the-counter reline materials or glues on dentures is also discouraged. These can contain harmful chemicals and the products do not provide a long-term solution for fixing them.

Denture replacement

Dentures should be used for more than five years before a replacement is necessary. However, this can vary widely depending on the patient. Dentists usually let patients know when dentures should be replaced. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, complete and removable dentures should be evaluated for replacement if the prostheses or prosthetic teeth are broken or cracked. Dentures should also be examined if a patient cannot or will not wear them or if the teeth supporting the removable partial denture are lost. A person should consult with a dentist and request that the dentures be examined regularly.

When to contact your dentist

If your dentures break, call your dentist immediately. Most times, a dentist can make the necessary adjustment or repairs on the same day. If the repairs are complicated, your denture may have to be sent to a special laboratory. However, depending on the extent of the damage, your dentures may have to be replaced. If you want to learn more about when you should get your dentures repaired or replaced, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

Request an appointment at Olive Family Dentistry or call (818) 846-2266 for an appointment in our Burbank office.

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