A cracked or broken denture feels like a bigger emergency than it usually is. Before you panic, here is what to actually do, and a realistic look at whether denture repair orangeville patients need is likely, or whether replacement makes more sense.
What to Do Right Now
If your denture breaks, collect all the pieces, including small chips, and store them somewhere safe. Rinse them gently if needed, but avoid using hot water, which can warp the material. Call your dentist as soon as you can to arrange an assessment, since the sooner it is looked at, the sooner you will know your options.
Do Not Try to Glue It Yourself
It is tempting to reach for household glue for a quick fix, but this is genuinely a bad idea. Many adhesives are not safe for the mouth and can be toxic if any residue remains, and a poor at-home repair can also make a professional repair harder or impossible afterward. Broken dentures orangeville patients bring in for a proper repair have a much better chance of a lasting fix than ones that were glued at home first.
Can It Be Repaired, or Does It Need Replacing?
Many cracks and clean breaks can be repaired by a dental lab, often within a day or two depending on the damage. A general dentist at O’Ville Dental will assess the specific damage first. However, not every denture can be repaired. Extensive damage, repeated cracks in the same area, or a denture that is already old and worn may be better replaced than patched again, and if that is the case, most patients find the first month of adjusting to a new denture is the biggest hurdle. Your dentist can assess this directly rather than guessing from a description alone.
Getting By Without Your Denture in the Meantime
While waiting for a repair, stick to softer foods and avoid situations where being without your denture would be difficult to manage. Most repairs can be turned around fairly quickly, so this is usually a short adjustment rather than a long one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can dentures be repaired the same day they break?
A: Sometimes, depending on the damage and lab availability, but many repairs take a day or two. Your dentist can give you a realistic timeline once they see the damage.
Q: Is it ever safe to use denture repair kits sold at pharmacies?
A: These are generally not recommended as a substitute for a professional repair, since a poor fit or seal can cause further problems. Bring it to your dentist instead.
Q: Why do dentures crack in the first place?
A: Common causes include accidental drops, normal wear over time, or a fit that has changed as your gums and jaw shape shift. A dentist can help identify what happened in your specific case.
Broken your denture? Bring it to O’Ville Dental in Orangeville as soon as you can for an honest assessment of your repair options.