Dentures are an essential part of daily life for many people, offering functionality and restoring confidence with a natural smile. However, they are not indestructible. Whether it's an accidental drop or natural wear and tear, dentures can break. When this happens, it's important to know the correct steps to take to get them repaired promptly and effectively. In this guide, we will explore how to handle denture repair, what options are available, and what to avoid.
Understanding the Common Causes of Denture Breakage
Denture breakage can occur for a variety of reasons. Below are the most frequent causes that can lead to the need for repair:
Accidental Dropping: One of the most common causes of denture damage occurs when users drop them, especially when cleaning. Even a small fall can cause cracks or chips.
Natural Wear and Tear: Over time, dentures experience significant pressure from chewing, talking, and daily use. This can weaken the material, leading to fractures.
Ill-Fitting Dentures: Poorly fitting dentures can create uneven pressure points, causing fractures over time.
Poor Maintenance: Dentures that are not properly cared for can become brittle or warped, increasing the risk of breakage.
Changes in Jaw Structure: Over the years, the bone structure in the jaw changes, which may cause dentures to fit improperly, leading to damage.
Understanding these causes allows you to take steps to prevent future damage, but when damage occurs, swift action is necessary.
Immediate Steps to Take After Denture Breakage
If your dentures break, it's crucial to avoid attempting a DIY repair. Temporary fixes, like using superglue, can cause further damage and lead to costly repairs down the line. Here's what you should do instead:
Safely Store the Broken Dentures: Keep all the broken pieces in a clean, dry container. Handling the pieces gently can help avoid further damage.
Contact Your Denturist Immediately: Reach out to a professional as soon as possible. For residents of Spokane, WA, Grishin Denture Specialist offers expert denture repair services, ensuring quick and reliable fixes.
Avoid Using the Broken Dentures: Using damaged dentures can cause discomfort or even injure your gums. Refrain from using them until they have been properly repaired.
Denture Repair Options: What to Expect
When it comes to fixing broken dentures, there are a few different repair options available, depending on the severity of the damage:
1. Relining and Rebasing
If your dentures have minor cracks or need better support, a denturist might recommend relining or rebasing:
Relining: This involves reshaping the side of the dentures that rests on your gums. This can correct fit issues and prevent further damage.
Rebasing: This procedure involves replacing the entire acrylic base of your dentures while keeping the teeth intact.
Relining and rebasing are common when dentures have become worn down but are not severely broken. These procedures not only repair minor damages but also help improve the overall fit and comfort of your dentures.
2. Fracture and Crack Repair
If a denture has a significant crack or break, professional fracture repair is necessary. Denturists can often repair such breaks by bonding the fractured pieces together with high-strength materials. This procedure typically does not take long and can be completed in the same day, depending on the severity of the damage.
3. Tooth Replacement
In cases where one or more artificial teeth have broken or chipped, the damaged teeth can be replaced with new ones. This process involves carefully matching the color and shape of the existing teeth to ensure a natural look.
4. Complete Denture Replacement
In some instances, if the damage is extensive or the dentures are older and nearing the end of their lifespan, complete replacement might be the best option. Your denturist will evaluate the situation and recommend whether a full replacement is more cost-effective in the long run.
The Importance of Professional Repair Services
Denture repairs should always be handled by professionals. DIY repairs can lead to improper alignment, discomfort, and further damage. Moreover, attempting repairs on your own may void any warranties that cover your dentures.
At Grishin Denture Specialist, experienced professionals use advanced materials and techniques to ensure high-quality repairs. Using professional services means that you can expect durable repairs that restore both the function and appearance of your dentures.
Same-Day Repair Services
Many denture repair services, including Grishin Denture Specialist in Spokane, WA, offer same-day repairs. This is particularly useful if your dentures break unexpectedly, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily life. However, same-day service may depend on the complexity of the repair.
Preventing Future Denture Breakage
While some factors leading to denture breakage are inevitable, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of damage in the future:
Handle Dentures Carefully: Always hold your dentures over a soft surface, like a towel or water-filled sink, when cleaning them to avoid dropping them.
Regular Adjustments: Over time, your gums and bone structure change, affecting how your dentures fit. Regular adjustments with your denturist can prevent improper fitting, which is a common cause of breakage.
Proper Cleaning and Maintenance: Use appropriate denture cleansers and avoid using harsh chemicals or hot water that could weaken or warp the dentures.
Store Dentures Safely: When not in use, store your dentures in a protective case, ideally in a water-based solution to keep them from drying out.
Conclusion
When dentures break, it’s important to act quickly and responsibly to prevent further damage. Whether it's a minor crack or a more severe break, professional denture repair services can help restore your dentures to their full functionality. By relying on experts like Grishin Denture Specialist in Spokane, WA, you can ensure high-quality repairs that will extend the life of your dentures and maintain your oral health. Regular care and proper handling will also help prevent future breakages, ensuring that your dentures serve you well for years to come.
Regular denture check-ups are essential for maintaining both the fit and function of your dentures, as well as safeguarding your overall oral health. Learn more about the benefits here
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