All Smiles Family Dentistry - Dentures, Extractions, Dental Implants, Quick Dentures
#Denture Repairs: What To Do When Your Dentures Break or Crack
Dentures are prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth and surround tissues. They are commonly made from acrylic resin or a combination of metal and acrylic. Dentures can last many years with proper care, but they may eventually need repairs due to cracking, chipping, or breaking. Knowing when to repair dentures and how to properly care for them can help extend their lifespan. This article outlines common denture problems and when repairs may be needed.
##Signs Your Dentures May Need Repair
There are several signs that indicate your dentures need professional repair or adjustment:
- Cracks or chips - Small cracks or chips in the acrylic can worsen over time. It's best to repair them early before they spread.
- Broken teeth - If a tooth breaks off or falls out of the base, this can affect chewing and lead to more damage.
- Loose fit - Ill-fitting dentures slip while eating or talking. As we age, our mouth naturally changes shape, potentially altering the fit.
- Rubbing or sores - Improperly aligned dentures rub and cause sores on the gums. This discomfort should be addressed.
- Stains - Coffee, tea, tobacco and certain foods can stain dentures. A thorough cleaning or repair may be required to remove stubborn stains.
- Warping - Extended exposure to heat can warp or distort the shape of dentures. This warping can affect the fit and chewing ability.
##When to Visit Your Dentist for Denture Repairs
It's important to have your dentist evaluate any chips, cracks, rubbing or changes in the fit of your **dentures**. Don't try to repair dentures yourself with glue or acrylics, as this can often make the problem worse. Here are some general guidelines on when to seek professional denture repairs:
- Visit your dentist as soon as possible if your denture breaks, cracks or chips. The sooner it is repaired, the less likely the damage will spread.
- See your dentist if your dentures are loose, wobbly or don't fit properly. Ill-fitting dentures can cause pain, sores and changes in your bite.
- Have dentures evaluated if they are causing discomfort, rubbing, or irritation. Don't assume you just need time to get used to them. A repair can improve comfort.
- Seek repairs if your dentures become stained or develop an odor that doesn't resolve with cleaning. Tobacco or coffee stains may require professional removal.
- Visit your dentist whenever your dentures are damaged in any way that affects their appearance or function. Even small cracks or chips are worth having repaired.
##Denture Repair Options
There are a few common options for repairing damaged or ill-fitting dentures:
- Direct repair - The dentist first assesses if the base or any components can be fixed directly. For small cracks or chips, they may grind the area to remove imperfections, then fill in the space with acrylic resin.
- Relining - To improve the fit of loose dentures, a soft reline material is applied to the interior surface that contacts the gums. This reline adheres to the base and creates a tighter seal.
- Rebasing - When significant reshaping is required, the dentist will reprocess the entire denture base to completely refit it to your gums. This rebasing process involves creating a new base molded to your mouth.
- Partial or full replacement - Heavily damaged or worn dentures that cannot be repaired may need partial components replaced or a completely new set fabricated. If teeth are damaged or parts are missing, replacement is usually necessary.
##Caring for Dentures Between Repairs
To extend the life of your dentures between professional repairs, be sure to follow these care practices:
- Clean dentures daily - Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and cool water to gently brush away food debris. Avoid stiff brushes that can scratch the surface.
- Rinse after meals - Whenever you eat, carefully remove your dentures and rinse off any stuck food to keep them clean.
- Soak periodically - Soak dentures overnight in an appropriate solution like Efferdent or Polident to remove stains and bacteria. Avoid hot water that could warp them.
- Remove dentures when sleeping - Take dentures out at night to allow your gums to rest and keep them away from pets who may damage them.
- Handle with care - Always hold dentures carefully when cleaning, soaping and removing to avoid drops and cracks. A damaged denture must be repaired.
##When to Consider Replacement Dentures
If your **dentures** become extremely worn or damage beyond repair, dental insurance and Medicare may cover the cost of replacement dentures every 5-7 years or so. Here are signs it may be time for replacement:
- Your dentures are over 10 years old and worn or ill-fitting due to changes in your mouth and bone structure. New dentures can be made to fit properly again.
- Severe discoloration or odors in the acrylic base that don't resolve with professional cleaning methods.
- Your dentures are damaged beyond repair from extensive cracking, chipping or breakage.
- Missing or broken denture teeth that cannot be replaced or added back into the base.
- You have ongoing discomfort, rubbing and sores that haven't been helped by adjustment, reline or rebase procedures.
##Consult Your Dentist About Denture Repair Options
Don't try to fix or **repair dentures** at home. Seek professional help to assess the damage and determine whether a simple repair, reline, rebase or full replacement is needed. With proper care between visits, such as daily cleaning and overnight soaking, you can help extend the life of your dentures. But see your dentist at the first sign of needed adjustments, discomfort or damage so small problems don't worsen. They can ensure your dentures fit properly and function optimally.
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