It is common for dentures to break. Wear and tear is the usual culprit, especially with a full set. The simple stress of daily chewing, cleaning and handling can lead to a fracture. When that happens, the first thing wearers want to know is if they can be fixed. If not, will they need to purchase all new ones and go through the process once more?
The good news is that in most cases dental professionals can fix dentures. Only in extreme cases will a patient need to start over from scratch.
Beyond common wear and tear, there are other reasons these appliances break down. The back and forth of extreme temperatures, from hot foods to cold drinks, can weaken prosthetics. So can certain acidic foods. Almost anything that enters the mouth, including the mouth’s natural state, can beat up on artificial teeth over time.
Bone loss along the jaw also leads to denture fracture. The mouth changes shape, often getting smaller, which can cause an improper fit. That leads to stability loss problems, which can act as a fracture catalyst.
Then there are simple accidents. Wearers can drop the appliance when putting it in or taking it out. If it hits a hard surface, it could easily crack.
A patient’s first impulse might be to fix the dentures themselves, but it is important to resist this urge. Trying a self-repair could damage the appliance further, making it more difficult for the dentist to make a proper renovation. Also avoid dental repair kits, as using them may also lead to larger problems. Repairs may look simple but often turn out to be more complex and difficult. Moreover, a proper fix may require certain tools to complete.
Instead, a patient should collect any broken components and make a repair appointment with the dentist. At the appointment, the dentist will assess the damage and make a suggestion as to next steps.
Patients should also check to determine if their dentures are under warranty. If they are, make sure to let the dentist know.
While every break is different, the dentist could recommend a few common repair scenarios. For many breakages, the repair may only take a little time during the appointment. If the repair is more complicated and requires the services of a dental lab, the fix may take a few days or longer. If this is the case, the dentist should work with the patient to develop a plan for making it through those days without the appliance.
If the dentist determines that the breakage is due to wear and tear that has led to an improper fit, a relining will likely be the dentist’s recommendation. If the artificial teeth are particularly damaged, then the dentist could suggest investing in a new set.
There are many reasons why dentures break, from simple wear and tear to an unexpected accident. Luckily for patients, most broken dental appliances can be repaired. To ensure the best results, patients should not try to fix them without professional help.
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