How Dentures Become Damaged Over Time
ShareYour dentures can wear out or break over time. However, there are ways you can prevent your dentures from becoming damaged and having them repaired.
Common Ways That Dentures Become Damaged
Some of the common ways that dentures become damaged include the following:
- Dropping them on hard surfaces
- Chewing on hard foods
- Cleaning them improperly or soaking them too long
Wearing dentures for too long or not adjusting them regularly can cause them to lose their fit and shape, leading to gum irritation, mouth infections, denture slippage, or denture sores.
How to Protect Your Dentures
To prevent damage, you should handle your dentures with care. Use a soft towel or a sink filled with water to cushion them when you clean or take them out.
Cut your food up and use both sides of your mouth to chew evenly. If you have partial dentures, avoid biting down to fit them into place, as this can damage the clasps.
Clean your dentures properly and soak them for the recommended time, and be sure to wear your dentures for the appropriate time and adjust them regularly. Rest your mouth by taking out your dentures at night and storing them in a moist container.
How to Repair Denture Damage
If your dentures become damaged, do not try to fix them yourself. Do not use common repair options like super glue, nail polish, or other household products to repair your dentures, as these can be toxic or damage the denture material further. Do not file down or trim your dentures, affecting their fit and function.
Be sure to let your dentist know about the damage. Depending on the type and severity of the damage, they may be able to repair your dentures in their office or send them to a dental laboratory for more complex repairs.
Types of Repairs Made By a Denturist
Some of the common types of repairs that can be done on dentures are:
- Repairing cracks or fractures in the base
- Tightening or replacing loose clasps
- Relining or rebasing the base to improve the fit
- Replacing worn-out or discolored material
The cost and time required for repairing your dentures will vary depending on the type and extent of the damage and the location and availability of your dental professional. Some minor repairs may be done within a few hours or a day, while others may take several days or weeks. However, once finished, your dentures will be as good as new.
To learn more about full denture repair, contact a professional near you.