Dentures are important support devices for many people. Although dentures are made from sturdy materials meant to last, like all things they can break down over time. If your dentures require repair you may be wondering where to start. Here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about denture repair.
1. Why do dentures break?
It is very important to properly care for your dentures. Proper care includes cleaning them everyday with soap and water (not toothpaste), soaking them in warm water overnight (not hot) to keep them moist, and having your dentures properly fitted in your mouth. If you neglect any of these things, it can cause your dentures to break prematurely.
Dentures are made of very durable plastic and are designed to last over a decade, but over time and with use they can get brittle or damaged. Teeth can also become loose in the dentures because of the friction involved in biting and chewing. After a certain time, even with proper care, dentures will need repair.
2. Can all denture breaks be repaired?
Most partial denture issues can be repaired, but not all. Small cracks and fractures can be fixed by a professional in a lab. Larger issues such as severe cracks or breaks and warping often cannot be repaired and likely your dentures will need to be replaced.
If the issue is that your dentures don’t fit correctly, you may need to see your prosthodontist for a reline. Talk to the denture and dental implants in Sarnia for a reline or new denture fitting. This procedure will ensure that your dentures fit correctly and work the way they are designed.
3. Can I repair my dentures myself?
Although you may be tempted to try and repair your dentures yourself, most dentists advise you to talk to them before you try any at-home fixes. Many times you can end up causing more damage to the dentures through your repair making the repair job more extensive and more expensive. You can also cause problems with chewing with a bad repair job, which can cause sore spots on your gums.
There are home denture repair kits available in stores, but Standard Dentures by Smile Denture Care Center advises you to give them a call before trying to fix a crack or fracture. Many glues and solvents that are available through home denture kits can actually damage the acrylic in your dentures over time and lead to earlier replacement.
4. Where are dentures repaired?
When you send your dentures away for repair, they are sent to a denture laboratory. At the laboratory, they will make an impression of your dentures so that a new mould can be poured around the place of the fracture. This new mould creates a strong bond that can withstand years of use.
5. How can I have my dentures repaired during this pandemic?
Normally, if you have an issue with your dentures you should go back to the prosthodontist who made them for an appointment. During COVID, many in-person appointments have been suspended. If you have an issue the best idea is to give your dentist a call. They can advise you on how to have your dentures repaired and send them out to the lab for you.
