Dentures play a crucial role in restoring smiles and improving the quality of life for people who have lost their natural teeth. However, like any dental appliance, dentures can break, crack, or wear out over time, requiring immediate repair. Whether your dentures have suffered a minor crack or are completely broken in half, knowing your denture repair options can save you time, money, and discomfort.
Here we will discuss common causes of denture damage, denture repair options, costs, and how to prevent future breakage.
Why Do Dentures Break?
Dentures are designed to be durable, but they are not indestructible. Here are some of the most common reasons why dentures break or need repair:
1. Accidental Drops
One of the most common ways dentures break is by falling onto a hard surface. Since dentures are made from acrylic and other materials, they can crack or completely break if dropped.
2. Normal Wear and Tear
Over time, dentures experience constant pressure from chewing and talking, leading to wear and small cracks. If left untreated, these minor cracks can expand, causing major damage.
3. Poor Fit Due to Bone Loss
As we age, the jawbone naturally shrinks when teeth are missing. This can cause dentures to loosen over time, increasing the risk of pressure points, cracks, and breakage.
4. Biting on Hard Foods or Objects
Dentures are not as strong as natural teeth, so biting on hard foods, ice, or non-food items can cause cracks or fractures.
5. Improper Cleaning Methods
Using hot water, harsh chemicals, or abrasive toothpaste can weaken denture material, making it more prone to cracks and breaks.
Types of Denture Damage and Repair Solutions
1. Cracked Denture Base
- Cause: Dropping dentures, biting on hard foods, or natural wear.
- Solution: A dentist can repair minor cracks using a special denture repair kit or acrylic bonding material. Severe cracks may require a complete denture replacement.
2. Broken Denture in Half
- Cause: Accidental drops or excessive force.
- Solution: DO NOT use glue! Only a professional dentist can properly align and bond the pieces back together. In some cases, a new denture may be needed.
3. Chipped or Broken Teeth
- Cause: Biting on hard objects or grinding teeth.
- Solution: A denture repair specialist can replace individual teeth without needing a full replacement.
4. Loose or Worn-Out Dentures
- Cause: Bone loss, and wear over time.
- Solution: A dentist may recommend a denture reline (adding material to the inside of the denture) or a new set of dentures for a better fit.
5. Missing or Detached Teeth
- Cause: Weak bonding or biting on something too hard.
- Solution: Denture reattachment services can replace and secure the missing teeth.
Can You Fix Broken Dentures at Home?
While some minor repairs can be done at home, seeing a dentist for professional denture repair is always best. However, if you need a temporary fix before seeing a professional, consider these options:
Temporary At-Home Denture Repair Tips
✅ Use an over-the-counter denture repair kit (available at pharmacies) for small cracks or missing teeth.
✅ If your denture breaks in half, avoid using super glue, as it contains harmful chemicals.
✅ For loose dentures, use denture adhesive to hold them in place until your dental visit.
When to Avoid DIY Repairs
❌ If your denture has snapped in two, don’t attempt to glue it back together.
❌ If you experience sharp edges or discomfort, do not continue using the broken denture.
❌ Avoid using household glue—it is toxic and may damage the denture permanently.
Professional Denture Repair Options
If your dentures are damaged, here are the best professional repair solutions:
1. In-Office Denture Repair
- Best for: Small cracks, missing teeth, loose dentures.
- Time required: Same-day or next-day service at most dental offices.
2. Denture Reline
- Best for: Loose or ill-fitting dentures.
- Process: The dentist adds new material to the inside of the denture to improve the fit.
- Time required: Usually completed within a few hours.
3. Denture Lab Repair Services
- Best for: Broken dentures, major cracks, full denture replacements.
- Process: The denture is sent to a specialized lab for professional restoration.
- Time required: 1 to 3 days, depending on the extent of damage.
Cost of Denture Repair
The cost of repairing dentures depends on the extent of damage and location. Here’s a general price breakdown:
| Type of Repair | Estimated Cost |
| Minor Crack Repair | $50 – $150 |
| Repairing a Broken Denture | $100 – $300 |
| Denture Reline | $250 – $500 |
| Replacing a Tooth in Denture | $100 – $200 |
| Full Denture Replacement | $1,000 – $3,500 |
If you have dental insurance, check your policy; some plans cover denture repairs.
How to Prevent Denture Damage
To avoid frequent repairs, follow these dentist-approved care tips:
1. Handle Dentures with Care
- Always hold dentures over a soft towel or a basin of water when cleaning to prevent breakage if dropped.
2. Avoid Biting Hard Foods
- Stay away from hard candy, ice, and nuts that can cause cracks.
3. Keep Dentures Moist
- Soak them overnight in denture solution to prevent drying and warping.
4. Clean Dentures Properly
- Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner to avoid weakening the material.
5. Get Regular Dental Checkups
- Visit your dentist every 6 to 12 months for adjustments and professional cleaning.
Conclusion
If your dentures have minor damage, professional repair can restore them quickly and affordably. However, if they are severely broken, loose, or causing discomfort, a new set of dentures or implant-supported options like overdenture implants may be a better long-term solution.
If you experience any denture issues, contact a dentist or denture specialist immediately to avoid further damage or discomfort.
FAQs
1. Can a broken denture be repaired?
Yes! Minor cracks and missing teeth can be repaired, but if dentures break in half, they may need full replacement.
2. How long does denture repair take?
Many minor denture repairs can be done the same day, while more complex fixes may take 1 to 3 days.
3. Is it safe to use super glue for denture repair?
No! Superglue contains harmful chemicals and is not safe for oral use. Always use a denture repair kit or visit a dentist.
4. How often should dentures be replaced?
Most dentures last 5 to 10 years, but frequent repairs or poor fit may indicate the need for a replacement.
5. What should I do if my dentures break while eating?
Stop using them immediately and schedule a dental visit to prevent further damage or injury.
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