If you wear dentures, the thought of them cracking, chipping, or completely breaking is a nightmare. It affects your appearance, speech, and can be costly to replace. But here’s some good news: broken dentures can often be fixed without needing a full replacement. This guide will walk you through different types of denture repairs, how to repair broken dentures and the timeframes involved, and steps to prevent future damage. Whether it’s a minor issue or a major break, you’ll find the information you need to restore your smile.
Common Denture Issues and Their Causes
Even with regular care, dentures are susceptible to damage due to daily wear and tear. Let’s explore some common problems and their causes:
- Simple Breaks: Dropping dentures on a hard surface like a tile floor can cause cracks, chips, or even a complete break. These breaks are often straightforward to repair by glueing, milling, and polishing the broken edges.
- Complex Breaks: More complicated breaks occur when a tooth or a larger piece breaks off, or when the clasps or flexible parts are damaged. These require new impressions to ensure the correct fit and positioning of replacement parts.
- Loose or Poorly Fitting Dentures: Over time, changes in your mouth’s shape due to tooth extractions, injuries, or ageing can cause dentures to become loose and uncomfortable. Poor fit can lead to further damage.
- Implant-Retained Denture Damage: Those with implant-retained dentures might face issues like loosening, especially if they grind or clench their teeth. Regular check-ups with your dentist ensure they remain in good condition.
The Denture Repair Process
The time needed to repair dentures varies based on the damage’s extent. However, professionals strive to return your dentures quickly without compromising quality.
- Simple Repairs: Minor cracks or chips can often be fixed in as little as 30 minutes by glueing and polishing the broken pieces.
- Complex Repairs: More severe issues like broken teeth or clasps might take 1 to 5 days. This process involves taking new impressions and ensuring a precise fit for replacement parts.
- Denture Relines: If dentures feel loose, a reline can help. This involves adding new material to the base for a better fit, often completed in one visit.
No matter the damage, reliable denture professionals will keep you informed throughout the repair process.
Preventing Denture Damage
Preventive care is key to avoiding denture damage. Here are some tips to keep your dentures in top shape:
- Handle with Care: Always handle your dentures carefully. Avoid dropping them by placing them gently on soft surfaces like a towel or in a sink filled with water.
- Rinse Regularly: Remove and rinse your dentures after every meal to prevent wear and tear, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance.
- Soak Overnight: Soak dentures in water overnight to prevent them from drying out, which can cause cracking or warping.
- Address Fit Issues: If your dentures feel loose or uncomfortable, consult your dentist promptly. Ignoring fit issues can lead to further damage.
Why You Should Always See A Professional
Attempting DIY denture fixes can often worsen the problem, leading to more extensive and costly repairs.
Professionals possess the knowledge, tools, and techniques to effectively assess and repair the damage. They can also identify and address any underlying issues to prevent future incidents.
Additionally, professional services often offer same-day or emergency options, ensuring minimal downtime without your dentures, which is crucial for daily activities like eating and speaking.
Looking for Denture Repair on the Gold Coast?
Whether you’re facing a simple break or struggling with poorly fitting dentures, you deserve to feel comfortable and confident in your smile.
Don’t endure the discomfort of damaged dentures! The sooner you seek denture repair, the better. If you need denture repair, South Coast Denture Clinic is here to help.
Contact us today for a free consultation or click here to learn more about our repair services.
