If you’ve lost several or all of your teeth, there’s a good chance you replaced them with dentures. These versatile prosthetics are the tried-and-true method to rebuild your smile’s appearance and functionality and offer many benefits that can improve your daily quality of life.
Although your restoration is made from durable materials, it’s not entirely invincible. If it breaks, you might wonder whether you should get help right away or if it’s safe to wait. Continue reading to learn more about why you should treat your damaged dentures like an emergency!
Are Broken Dentures Urgent?
It’s easy to assume that if your dentures are chipped, cracked, or injured, it’s primarily an aesthetic concern that doesn’t require immediate attention. However, they rely on a tight suction against your gums to remain in place all day and if their structure is compromised, they might not form a tight enough bond. This can make basic tasks like chewing, enunciating clearly, and smiling confidently much more challenging. If the teeth are chipped or cracked, for example, they might break further the next time you bite into something.
Furthermore, damaged prosthetics can also negatively affect your dental health. For instance, if the acrylic base has fractured, bacteria can penetrate your restoration and cause gum disease that can impact your jawbone if left unaddressed.
Why Did My Dentures Break?
Several common culprits could potentially hurt your dentures, such as:
- Falling from a tall enough height, like when you’re washing them.
- Biting into something overly hard or sticky that could chip, crack, or yank them out of shape.
- Drying out and cracking overnight.
- Warping after exposure to overly hot temperatures.
- Being set under heavy pressure, like if you forget they’re in your pocket and sit down.
How Should I Handle Broken Dentures?
You may feel tempted to try to repair your injured teeth at home, but many patients have made matters worse by applying superglue or other toxic household supplies that aren’t intended for oral use. The best course of action is to call your dentist to assess that situation and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
In instances of minor chips and cracks in the teeth, your dentist might be able to apply the same tooth-colored composite resin used to fill cavities. It can be color-matched and applied directly to your dentures so that you can continue to use them to eat normally. However, if the base has been harmed, they might need to be relined or replaced to ensure a proper fit moving forward.
The best way to fix your broken dentures is to give your dentist a call!
About the Author
Dr. Bryan Villescas has a lifetime of involvement in the dental field and enjoys helping patients build happy, healthy smiles. He earned his dental degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, then continued his education with Spear Education, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and more. Now, he offers a wide range of services to meet all of your and your family’s oral healthcare needs conveniently under one roof, including dentures. If your restoration has been harmed, you can request an appointment on the website or call (941) 627-9900.