How Dentures Get Damaged
Dentures may become damaged over time due to regular wear and tear or from sudden impacts. The shape of the mouth and jaw can also change, causing dentures to fit poorly and potentially causing damage. Metal clasps in dental bridges can also loosen or break. It is important to have dentures evaluated by a professional if the prosthetic teeth are cracked, broken, or missing. Using denture adhesive can help patients get used to wearing dentures, but it is important to check the fit and stability of the dentures and to be cautious when handling them to avoid accidental damage.
“The mouth and jaw change over time, which can cause dentures to fit poorly.”
Tips To Care For Dentures
Proper care is essential to extend the life of dentures and avoid damage. The American College of Prosthodontists recommends treating dentures like fine china and following these tips to take care of them:
- When washing dentures, hold them over a folded towel or basin of water to soften the impact if they are dropped
- Use denture brushes and cleaning products that are approved by the American Dental Association (ADA)
- Soak dentures in a solution or a bowl of water when they are not being worn to prevent them from drying out
- Avoid using hot water to clean dentures as it can warp them
- Clean your dentures every day, including brushing your gums, tongue, and palate before inserting them
- Use adhesive to help keep dentures stable in your mouth
- Get your dentures adjusted if they don’t fit correctly to prevent them from falling out
- Keep dentures out of reach of pets and children.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your dentures last as long as possible.
What To Do When Dentures Get Damaged
If your dentures are damaged, it is important to make an appointment with a dental professional for repairs or adjustments as soon as possible. In the meantime, there are some steps you can take to protect your dentures and keep them in good condition:
- Gather all of the broken pieces of your dentures and take them with you to the dentist’s office
- Use dental wax as a temporary barrier if wires are rubbing against your gums
- Do not continue to wear damaged dentures. Instead, soak them in water to keep them moist
- Place the dentures in their case for transport to the dentist’s office
- Do not use over-the-counter glues as they may not be safe for use on human tissue.
The amount of time it takes to repair dentures can vary depending on the extent of the damage. If your dentures cannot be repaired immediately, you may want to discuss other options with your dentist while you wait for them to be repaired. Some patients choose to have a spare set of dentures on hand in case of emergencies.
“Fortunately, there are still proactive steps patients can take until they can get to the dentist.”
Fixing Dentures at Home
It is generally not recommended for patients to try to fix their own dentures at home as it can be risky and may cause further damage. Attempting to repair dentures at home can also introduce unsafe chemicals into the mouth. If you have damaged dentures, it is best to contact a dental professional for advice on a temporary fix and to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. The American College of Prosthodontists does not recommend using home repair kits for denture repair. If you do choose to use a home repair kit, make sure that it is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for dental use. Keep in mind that these kits can only provide temporary solutions and it is important to see a dental professional as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may be able to address minor, temporary fixes to your dentures, but only dental professionals can tackle any significant issues. Trying to fix dentures yourself can only damage them further. It is safer and more affordable to bring your dentures to our office.
If you lose a tooth from the denture, try to save the tooth. Make an appointment with a prosthodontist for repairs. If you cannot find the tooth, there is no need to panic. The denture lab that offers repairs will typically have replacement teeth.
Do not wear damaged dentures. Call your dentist and ask for an appointment to fix your dentures. Damaged dentures are uncomfortable and can harm your oral health.
Do not use any non-ADA approved glue to fix your dentures, even if it is just temporary. The bond will not hold well, and it is not safe to have these glues in your mouth. Plus, some types of superglue are water-soluble, which means that saliva will dissolve the bond.
Dentures lose their shape over time when they dry out. They may also crack after being dropped onto a hard surface. Placing dentures in hot water can cause them to warp. When dentures do not fit, contact a professional.
When dentures are adequately taken care of, a set can last up to 10 years. The American College of Prosthodontists recommends getting your dentures evaluated when the prosthesis is over five years old. If the prosthetic teeth are cracked, broken, or missing, instead of fixing dentures, replacement may be necessary.
