Why You Should Never Use Superglue on Dentures: Risks, Damage, and Safer Solutions for Spokane Patients

michaelgrishindent
12 minutes ago
3 min read

Dentures and a blue tube of glue on a gray surface. The dentures show visible cracks. The tube label has red and white text.

Many denture wearers in Spokane searching for dentures near me, dentures Spokane, or a dependable Spokane denture clinic come across harmful DIY repair ideas online—especially the dangerous claim that household superglue can “fix” cracked dentures. At Grishin Denture Specialist in Spokane, WA, we frequently see dentures permanently damaged by glue. Although it may seem like a quick, cheap solution, superglue destroys denture acrylic, irritates tissues, and often turns a small repair into a full replacement.

Understanding why superglue is unsafe—and what you should do instead—protects your investment, your oral health, and your long-term comfort.

Why Superglue Should Never Be Used on Dentures

Denture bases are made from medical-grade PMMA acrylic, engineered for flexibility, durability, and compatibility with specialized dental resins. Cyanoacrylate (superglue) is a household adhesive designed for rigid materials—not for oral use and not for dental prosthetics.

How Superglue Damages Dentures

Superglue triggers several destructive chemical reactions:

Heat during curing – distorts the denture and weakens the fit
Acrylic breakdown – causes micro-fractures that spread under bite pressure
Permanent staining – glue penetrates the pores of acrylic, leaving dark streaks
Surface contamination – prevents proper bonding during professional repair

To see how other household products damage dentures, read our guide on acidic drinks and denture staining.

Health Risks Caused by DIY Glue Repairs

Superglue harms more than your dentures—it can put your overall health at risk.

1. Chemical Burns & Toxic Fumes

Cyanoacrylate irritates:

Gum tissues
Throat and oral lining
Nasal passages

Older adults and medically vulnerable Spokane patients are especially susceptible.

2. Higher Risk of Fungal & Bacterial Infection

Trapped glue creates bacteria-rich pockets, increasing likelihood of:

Denture stomatitis
Oral thrush
Ulcerations and sore spots

Wearing dentures overnight increases these risks even further. Learn more in nighttime denture safety.

3. Choking Hazard

When a glued denture inevitably fails:

Acrylic fragments break loose
Sharp edges splinter
Small pieces may be swallowed or inhaled

This risk is highest among seniors.

Why Dentures Crack — The Underlying Cause Matters

A crack is almost never random. It typically means:

Natural bone resorption has changed the fit
The bite pressure has shifted
Denture teeth are worn
Acrylic fatigue has progressed over time

The Journal of Prosthodontics notes that occlusal imbalance is a leading cause of midline denture fractures.

Learn to spot early problems in our Spokane guide: red flags when choosing dentures.

How Professional Denturists Repair Dentures Correctly

Superglue destroys dentures. Professional repair restores them.

A proper repair includes:

Removing all contaminated acrylic
Rebonding with pressure-cured dental acrylic
Adjusting the bite to prevent future fractures
Polishing to eliminate irritation and reduce bacterial buildup

If your denture broke soon after extractions, see our guide on immediate dentures.

How Spokane Denture Wearers Can Prevent Future Breakage

You can dramatically reduce the risk of fractures by:

Replacing dentures every 5–7 years
Scheduling annual fit assessments
Avoiding hot water exposure
Storing dentures in water
Managing dry mouth
Considering implant-supported stability

Learn more about long-term solutions in our article on implant-supported dentures.

Why DIY Repairs Cost More in the Long Run

A $5 glue repair often results in:

Total denture replacement
Infection treatment
Emergency visits
Increased soreness or irritation
Permanent acrylic degradation

Spokane’s dry climate can also increase acrylic brittleness, making professional care essential. DIY repairs nearly always cost more—and cause more pain—than proper care.

Why We Use Traditional Impressions, Not 3D Printed Systems

At our Spokane denture clinic, we rely on traditional alginate impressions, not digital-only methods. Alginate captures fine soft-tissue detail more accurately, ensuring better suction, stability, and long-term fit—especially important when repairing or remaking cracked dentures.

Conclusion

Orange canopies cover a building entrance with greenery around. A sign reads "ORANGE FLAG bldg." with a list of names. Reserved parking sign visible.

A cracked denture may seem like a quick fix, but superglue creates irreversible acrylic damage, infection risks, and choking hazards. For anyone using Spokane dentures, dentures Spokane WA, or searching for dentures near me, proper repair methods are essential for safety and comfort.

At Grishin Denture Specialist, we support patients across Spokane, Spokane Valley, Cheney, Deer Park, and Liberty Lake with professional repairs, handcrafted replacements, and long-term comfort. Whether your dentures feel loose, cracked, or painful, Denturist Michael Grishin—a trusted denturist near me—can restore stability with a reline, adjustment, or a beautifully crafted new set of dentures in Spokane.

To protect your health and avoid expensive complications, choose affordable dentures in Spokane and expert care designed for everyday confidence.

If you use denture adhesive daily, it’s important to recognize early warning signs—this guide explains how to tell if denture adhesive is harming your gums and when to seek professional care.

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