What Do I Do If I Damage My Dentures
Expert Help for Fixing Dentures
Dentures are often a great alternative to natural teeth for many patients. However, they may require adjustments or replacement due to normal wear over time. It is not recommended for patients to try to fix their dentures themselves as this could potentially cause irreparable damage.
If you are in Cedar Grove or the surrounding area and are in need of denture repair, Cedar Grove Dental Group is here to help. Accidents happen, and damaged dentures can be uncomfortable and even cause injury to your mouth. Give us a call at (973) 857-0567 to schedule an appointment for assistance with fixing your dentures today.
How Dentures Get Damaged
While dentures can last for many years, they are not immune to damage that occurs gradually with regular wear. Changes in the mouth and jaw over time can lead to poor fit, potentially causing stress on the devices when biting down. Metal clasps in dental bridges may also come loose or break off, and sudden impacts can result in damage to dentures.
The American Dental Association recommends having dentures evaluated by a professional if the prosthetic teeth are cracked, broken, or missing. Using denture adhesive can help patients adjust to wearing dentures, and it is important to check for proper fit and stability regularly. If dentures become loose and fall out, they should be checked for damage to prevent cracking.
“The mouth and jaw change over time, which can cause dentures to fit poorly.”
Tips To Care For Dentures
Dentures, being delicate items, require proper care to avoid any damage. Developing good habits can help extend the lifespan of dentures and bridges. The American College of Prosthodontists suggests treating dentures with the same care as fine china. Patients are advised to adhere to these guidelines for denture maintenance:
- When cleaning dentures, hold them over a folded towel or basin of water to soften the impact if dropped
- Use denture brushes and cleaning products approved by the ADA
- Soak dentures in a solution or jaw of water when not in use to prevent them from drying out
- Avoid using hot water to clean dentures as it can warp them
- Clean your dentures daily and brush your gums, tongue, and palate to remove plaque before inserting dentures
- Use adhesive to help keep dentures stable in the mouth
- Have dentures adjusted if they feel loose to prevent them from falling out
- Keep dentures out of reach of pets and children
“Good habits increase the longevity of dentures and bridges.”
What To Do When Dentures Get Damaged
Even with precautions in place, accidents can still occur. If dentures become damaged, it is important for the patient to schedule an appointment with a dental professional for necessary repairs or adjustments. In the meantime, there are proactive measures that patients can take to address the issue before seeing the dentist.
- In case of denture breakage, collect all wires and parts to bring to the dentist's office.
- Use dental wax as a temporary barrier if wires are causing discomfort.
- Do not wear damaged dentures. Keep them moist by soaking.
- Transport dentures in their case to the dentist's office.
- Avoid using over-the-counter glues, as not all are approved for human use.
The time needed to repair dentures varies depending on several factors. If immediate repair is not possible, patients should consider discussing alternative options with their dentist while waiting for their repair. Some patients keep a spare set of dentures in case their regular set is damaged.
“Fortunately, there are still proactive steps patients can take until they can get to the dentist.”
Fixing Dentures at Home
It is strongly advised by most dentists to avoid attempting to fix dentures at home. These repairs should only be considered as a temporary solution and approached with caution. There is a risk of causing further damage to the dentures or introducing harmful chemicals into the mouth. The best course of action is to contact our team for guidance on a temporary fix while waiting to see the dentist.
The American College of Prosthodontists also does not recommend using over-the-counter glues or home repair kits for denture repair. If a patient decides to use a home repair kit, they should ensure that it is FDA-approved for dental use. It is important to schedule an appointment with our team as soon as possible, as these kits can only provide temporary solutions.
