One of the most common ways to replace several missing teeth on a dental arch is with the help of dentures. Many people enjoy the benefits as they are a reliable restoration that can last up to a decade. Despite lasting a long time, they aren’t invincible to damage.
If you have a broken denture, it can impact your daily life. They are your teeth after all, and eating or speaking with broken dentures isn’t the best idea. You might wonder if broken dentures can be repaired, but it depends on their condition. Here’s why you should visit your emergency dentist if you end up with broken dentures and ways they can help.
What Caused My Dentures to Break?
While the dental prosthetic is very durable, several things can still damage it. Some reasons are:
- General Wear and Tear: As your dentures get older, they are more likely to break. Since you use them daily, biting and chewing can lead to small cracks that weaken the material over time.
- Certain Foods: Hard, sugary, and acidic foods can strain or break down the prosthetic over time.
- Improper Fit: If your dentures no longer fit properly due to changes in your jawbone or gum tissue, they can shift around in your mouth. This movement can cause uneven pressure and make them more likely to crack. The prosthetic may also accidentally fall out of your mouth and hit the ground or a hard counter.
Are Broken Dentures a Dental Emergency?
In short, broken dentures are a dental emergency! Since dentures are custom-made to fit your mouth, any changes to their integrity can change the way you speak and eat or harm your gums. Chips and cracks in them can cause cuts that can become infected. Moreover, they may not sit properly on your gums. That can lead to sore spots and pressure points.
Do-it-yourself repairs might seem like a quick solution, but they aren’t usually the safest or most effective choice. General household adhesives like superglue are not fit for oral use, and even denture repair kits can be unreliable, as your dentist may not be able to fix the dentures after using them. The best way to handle this dental emergency is to call your dental office right away.
How Can My Dentist Fix My Broken Dentures?
When you visit your dentist, there are a few things they can do to fix your denture. They may be able to:
- Repair the damage in the office on the same day or opt to have a dental lab fix the prosthetic.
- Reline the denture to make it more stable and comfortable.
- Any serious damage may require you to get a replacement for the entire restoration.
Even though a damaged denture can seem like a minor inconvenience, it’s a dental emergency! Be sure to call your dentist if you find yourself with a broken dental prosthetic, since they are here to help get your beautiful smile back.
About the Author
Dr. Justyna Laska is all about giving a positive dental experience to everyone who walks through her door. With over 20 years of experience, she is committed to providing her patients with comfortable and effective care.
Dr. Laska takes every step necessary to restore a smile to its pristine condition during your dental emergencies. She even offers same-day emergency appointments so that you can get back to your routine as quickly as possible. If you’re dealing with a broken denture, schedule an appointment or call us at (817) 737-9555.