Losing or damaging your dentures can be a stressful experience, especially considering that 11% of adults use dentures to replace one or more teeth in their upper or lower jaw. Among these, 7% have dentures in their upper jaw only, 3% in both the upper and lower jaws, and 1% in the lower jaw only. The prevalence of dentures increases with age, with only 1% of adults aged 16 to 24 using them, compared to 39% of adults aged 75 and over. Whether it’s from age-related wear, an accident, or everyday use, it’s important to know what to do when your dentures break.
If your dentures break, remain calm and avoid DIY fixes. Assess the damage and seek professional repair services to prevent further harm. A mobile denture repair service can restore your dentures quickly, whether it’s fixing cracks, replacing broken teeth, or re-aligning the base for comfort and functionality.
In this denture repair guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to take when your dentures break, provide tips for preventing damage in the future, and highlight when to seek professional help.
What to Do Immediately When Your Dentures Break
Accidents can happen at any time, and while breaking your dentures may seem like a disaster, it’s often possible to repair them with the right care. The first step when you realise your dentures are broken is to remain calm. In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to panic, but taking a moment to assess the situation will help you make the right decisions.
Step 1: Remain Calm
Although it’s natural to feel upset when your dentures break, it’s crucial not to panic. Mishandling your dentures can worsen the damage. So, before doing anything, take a deep breath and handle them gently. Do not try to fix the break yourself with DIY glues or home repair kits. These attempts can lead to further damage and may even render your dentures unusable.
Step 2: Assess the Damage
The next step is to examine your dentures carefully to understand the extent of the damage. Are the dentures cracked or have teeth broken off? Perhaps a part of the denture base has come loose? While small cracks may appear to be a minor problem, they can worsen over time, so it’s crucial to address them as soon as possible. However, never attempt to glue the pieces back together yourself. Professional repair is the best way to ensure a proper fix.
Common Types of Denture Breakage and How They Can Be Fixed
Understanding the types of damage your dentures can sustain will help you assess the severity and determine the best course of action. Below are some common types of denture damage and how professionals can repair them.
Cracks in the Denture Plate
Cracking is one of the most common forms of damage. Over time, dentures can develop cracks due to repeated pressure, wear and tear, or an accidental drop. While it may seem like a simple problem, cracks can compromise the integrity of your dentures and lead to more serious issues if left untreated.
A professional repair service will be able to assess the crack and determine whether the denture can be patched up or if it needs to be fully replaced. Using specialised tools and techniques, dental professionals will ensure that the crack is sealed and the dentures are restored to their original function.
Broken Teeth on Dentures
A broken tooth is another frequent issue that denture wearers face. It can happen if a tooth becomes loose or chipped due to pressure while eating or biting down on something hard. While broken teeth can be an inconvenience, they are often easily replaceable by a professional.
Your dentist or denture repair specialist will remove the damaged tooth and replace it with a new, matching one. It’s important to note that the rest of the denture base may still be usable, so in most cases, only the individual tooth needs to be replaced, saving both time and money.
Loose or Broken Denture Base
In some cases, the base of your dentures may become loose or broken, which can make wearing them uncomfortable or impractical. Loose dentures can cause irritation to your gums, making eating and speaking difficult. If you experience this problem, you should seek professional repair services as soon as possible.
A broken denture base requires immediate attention from a denture technician. They can reline the denture to ensure a snug fit or completely replace the base if necessary. Depending on the severity of the damage, this may require creating a new base to match your existing teeth.
When to Seek Professional Help
While it may be tempting to try a quick fix at home, professional help is always the best option when your dentures break. Denture repair specialists have the expertise and tools necessary to fix your dentures properly and ensure that they’re both functional and comfortable.
In cases where your dentures break unexpectedly, you may require emergency denture repair. Mobile denture repair services are ideal for urgent situations, offering prompt and professional care to restore your dentures without the wait.
Why You Should Avoid DIY Repairs
Many people attempt to fix their dentures at home, either using glue or over-the-counter repair kits. While these methods may seem effective in the short term, they rarely provide a long-lasting solution. In fact, DIY repairs can cause more harm than good, leading to:
- Misalignment of the dentures, which can affect your ability to chew and speak
- Further cracking or damage that makes professional repair more expensive
- Reduced comfort, as DIY methods don’t address the underlying issue
Professional repairs, on the other hand, are done by trained technicians who use high-quality materials to restore your dentures properly. Not only will your dentures be repaired with precision, but they will also be adjusted to fit your mouth comfortably.
The Benefits of Mobile Denture Repair Services
For those who find it difficult to visit a dentist or repair centre in person, mobile denture repair services offer a convenient and effective solution. Mobile services allow you to have your dentures repaired at home, saving you time and stress. This is especially helpful for people with mobility issues or those who simply prefer the convenience of professional services coming to them.
Mobile denture repair professionals carry all the necessary equipment and materials to repair your dentures in the comfort of your own home. From cracked plates to broken teeth, they can restore your dentures quickly and efficiently.
How Denture Repairs Are Done Professionally
When you take your broken dentures to a professional, they will begin by carefully examining the damage to determine the best course of action. Here’s a general overview of how dentures are repaired professionally:
- Cleaning: The technician will clean your dentures to ensure that there are no dirt or debris that could interfere with the repair process.
- Assessing the Damage: The technician will assess the extent of the damage and decide whether the dentures can be repaired or if a replacement is necessary.
- Repairing: Using advanced techniques and materials, the technician will carefully repair the crack, replace broken teeth, or fix the base to restore the dentures.
- Testing Fit: Once the repairs are complete, the technician will test the fit of the dentures to ensure they are comfortable and functional.
Throughout this process, you can expect high-quality craftsmanship and a professional service that guarantees the longevity of your dentures.
While professional repair is often the best course of action, there may be situations where your dentures are beyond repair. In these cases, your dentist or denture technician might recommend getting new dentures. New dentures can be custom-made to better suit your mouth, ensuring improved comfort and fit.
Prevention Tips to Avoid Future Breakage
While dentures are durable, they can still be damaged if not properly cared for. Here are some prevention tips to help you keep your dentures in good condition:
- Store Dentures Properly: When you’re not wearing your dentures, store them in a safe, secure place. Use a denture case or container to protect them from accidental drops.
- Clean Your Dentures Regularly: Clean your dentures with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleaner to prevent wear and tear.
- Avoid Hard Foods: While dentures are sturdy, biting down on hard foods can cause damage. Be cautious with nuts, hard candies, and other tough foods.
- Handle with Care: Always handle your dentures carefully. Avoid dropping them, as this can cause cracks or breaks.
Get Your Smile Back!
If your dentures break, it’s essential to stay calm and avoid further damage. While DIY fixes may seem tempting, professional repair ensures a lasting solution. Whether it’s fixing a cracked plate, replacing broken teeth, or repairing a loose base, The Mobile Denture Repair Company offers fast, efficient, and expert services. If your dentures are damaged, visit The Mobile Denture Repair Company to restore your dentures and get back to your routine with confidence.
