Can I Repair My Own Dentures
DIY remedies, such as denture repair kits have become a popular option for fixing broken dentures. You may even be considering repairing your dentures by yourself, as it may seem like a simple procedure. However, this usually depends on the denture type and the degree of damage. When your denture breaks, you would most likely want it repaired as soon as possible.
Even after using a denture repair kit, the dentures may break again in the same area in the future. To avoid this, you may restore your broken dentures in Bellevue by visiting our dental clinic. We will apply the proper fix at Bellevue Azalea Dentistry to prolong the life of your dentures. Continue reading to find out more about denture repair.
Never Attempt To Fix Broken Dentures Yourself
According to the Mayo Dental and Implant Clinic, dentures are usually acrylic or metal. They replace damaged or missing teeth, allowing people to eat a nutritious diet and smile with pride. A patient’s dentures need to be fitted by a professional. If your dentures break by accident, a professional re-fitting is also required following repair to ensure that any necessary changes are addressed. Trying to fix broken dentures at home may lead to complications for both the patient and the prosthesis.
Glues and other bonding agents can cause mouth irritation
Many people use glue or other identical adhesives to fix broken dentures at home. But because they are not intended for dental usage, these glues can cause severe discomfort in the mouth. Denture self-repair with glue may cause an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Moreover, certain adhesives are hazardous.
The dentures may break even more
Dentures are fragile and quickly shattered. Attempting to fix a broken denture by yourself may further damage them.
A DIY fix may not fit properly
Dentures need to be carefully matched to a patient’s gums to function like real teeth. Even when you successfully fix your denture with a denture repair kit, the prosthesis may not fit anymore. A pair of dentures that don’t fit properly may slip out at inconvenient times or cause severe gum inflammation.
Common Causes of a Broken Denture
Your denture may become more vulnerable to breaking with time. This may cause the denture to wobble in your mouth. This type of repetitive stretching degrades the plastic and causes it to crack. The following are some of the most common causes of a broken denture:
Accidentally dropping the denture
Your denture may get damaged when you accidentally drop it. But sometimes, it may not shatter immediately. However, the impact might weaken it, eventually causing the denture to break.
Poorly fitted dentures
Your dentures may shake in your mouth if they are not properly fitted. This may weaken and break the denture in time. A thin line may form on the denture, eventually progressing to a complete fracture.
Isolated Teeth
Isolated teeth may break off your denture. This tooth is meant to be held in place by your denture. On the other hand, chewing hard foods might put a strain on the denture and cause it to snap off. You may have a Chrome Denture fitted instead. This may give more strength to this region. If the condition persists, you may consider a bridge or implant in the future.
Broken clasps
Clasps are often made of gold. They are meant to aid in the stability of your dentures by fastening them around your natural teeth. While your dentist may minimally modify clasps, they are not intended to be bent. Frequently removing and inserting your denture might put a strain on clasps. Dentures with clasps may be removed and reinserted gently and cautiously. Avoid biting your denture to keep the clasps in position. When your clasp breaks, get help quickly from your denturist to restore them.
What steps should a patient take if dentures break?
It is not advisable to mend dentures at home. If a patient breaks their dental prosthesis, they need to consult a dentist as soon as possible. There are a few extra safeguards to take in the meanwhile.
Make sure to gather all parts and store them properly
When dentures break, it is critical to double-check that all lost components have been located. If they shatter after being dropped, pieces of the denture or wire may scatter everywhere. Patients may meticulously inspect the region where the dentures were broken to verify that all components are found.
Look for a denture repair kit
Denture repair kits are available at most local pharmacy shops. Ensure that the kit is labeled as suited for dental procedures and FDA-approved. However, these kits are not intended for long-term use.
Visit Your Dentist
Going to your dentist or denturist with broken components is an effective way to repair a damaged denture. Before shipping it to the lab, your denturist can glue the parts together. An imprint of the temporarily fixed denture can be obtained at the lab so that it can be readily rebased.
Avoiding Future Mishaps
Prevention is an essential element of planning for and managing dental crises. Even the most carefully crafted dentures will degrade over time. However, with appropriate care, your denture may last much longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dentures More Fragile Than Natural Teeth?
Yes. Dentures are made from materials that are more brittle than real teeth. As a result, if dentures are accidentally dropped or left unattended, they may likely shatter or break. These materials may need to be changed every 5 years or so since they are more delicate than your natural dentition.
Conclusion
It is typically preferable to get your dentures fixed by a dentist. You may avoid potential harm to the pieces this way. You may handle some minor repairs yourself by purchasing a denture repair kit if you can’t wait. Whatever you decide, you may want your dentist to look at them afterward. This might assist in making your dentures last longer.
