What You Need To Know About Denture Repairs
It’s always an inconvenience when dentures crack or break and it always typically happens when you need to be somewhere, or if you’re in a rush! Dentures can break for an array of reasons which we’ll get into shortly, but the answer you’re probably looking for is to this question…
“Can Pinnacle Prosthetics repair dentures?”
The answer is yes, we can. We’re specialists in all things dentures, with our technicians being General Dental Council (GDC) registered and experts in their field. But first, let us tell you more about them (the dentures, not the technicians).
What are dentures?
Dentures are used to treat people of any age, not just older people (we know you were thinking it!). They can be a result of advanced gum disease or tooth decay.
More commonly known as removable false teeth, dentures are made of acrylic, nylon or metal. They are specially made to fit neatly and comfortably over your gums, to replace and replicate a set of teeth. Having them fitted also eradicates any potential problems caused by missing teeth. Some people may need a whole new set of teeth whilst others might only need a few replacements.
Complete Dentures- These are brand new, full sets of teeth to replace where your upper and lower ones would’ve been.
Partial Dentures- These replace either one tooth or a few missing teeth.
Now we’ve given you an insight into what dentures are, let’s discuss repairing.
Can a denture be repaired?
Cracked, fractured and broken dentures can be repaired. At Pinnacle Prosthetics, we insert strengtheners into the dentures and remove any stains. We also repair chips in artificial teeth and replace ones that have broken off.
How long does it take Pinnacle Prosthetics to repair damaged dentures?
The severity of the damage depends on the time-frame of the repair. Through our Emergency Service, we can replace or repair a damaged tooth or fracture in 2 hours. With dentures repairs, this will rest on the extent of the damage, how old the denture is and the condition it was in before it was broken.
We always try and aim to have denture repairs back the same day or at most, up to 24 hours later.
What causes dentures to break or crack?
There are a multitude of reasons why your dentures might break or crack (it’s more common than you think!) but here’s the rundown:
The dentures aren’t properly fitted
We can’t emphasise enough how important it is for your dentures to be properly fitted. Even the slightest imperfection with the fitting process can add a lot of stress to your dentures. This pressure on the denture can cause them to crack.
Meal times
If you’re not being careful, you can chip your dentures when you’re eating. Careless chewing or accidentally biting down on something hard can break them.
Dropping them
We’re all guilty of having butter fingers sometimes and accidents do happen (especially when your dentures have been in liquid overnight!). But because of the materials they’re created from, this will cause them to break or chip. This typically happens when you’re putting them in or taking them out, or even cleaning them. Pinnacle top tip: Whenever you’re handling your dentures, cushion the surface below you and your hands with a towel. If the dentures slip and fall, the blow has been softened and reduces the risk of a breakage.
General wear and tear
As you wear your dentures just as you would your original teeth, wear and tear does happen. The wear and tear of the dentures can lead to easier breaks or chips.
What can I do to prevent damaging my dentures?
Protecting your dentures and preventing any damage is easier than you think. Practicing these methods daily soon weaves into your daily routine!
Cleaning the dentures
Dentures need to be cleaned just as you would clean any other teeth:
Soak them overnight in a denture cleaner/fluid - this will stop the material the dentures are made with from drying out and cracking.
Clean the dentures in the morning before putting them in and at night when taking them out - use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a special denture brush with plain soap and cold water (your dentist can also recommend a denture cleaner). Make sure you refrain from using household cleaners, bleach or toothpaste as they’re too abrasive. Pinnacle top tip: don’t use hot water when cleaning your dentures as it can bleach the colour of them!
Once you’ve eaten something, give your dentures a clean. This can help to keep your mouth nice and clean but also minimises the risk of staining.
Make sure your mouth is completely clean before popping your dentures back in.
Make sure your dentures fit
Even if you have the slightest inkling that your dentures don’t fit properly, don’t leave it to chance. Like we mentioned before, if they don’t fit properly this can add stress to the denture causing them to crack.
Overtime, your gums and bones change shape which can lead to your dentures not fitting like they once did. Your dentures will need to be adjusted and modified to ensure they’re still the perfect fit for your mouth. Our dental technicians are perfect for this job; please never attempt to modify your dentures yourself.
Take time speaking
When you first get dentures, you might find it harder to pronounce certain words because your mouth has changed. Don’t be alarmed, this is completely normal and you just need a little bit of patience. If you find your dentures are moving around when you laugh or smile, gently bite down and put them back in place. You can always check the fit of them with your dentist if you have any worries.
Eat soft foods
Are you having a bit of trouble with your eating? Again, this is completely normal as your mouth is getting used to the changes! In the beginning take small bites of softer food such as porridge, scrambled eggs and mashed potatoes and soon enough, your eating habits will be back to normal. You should also:
Don’t chew anything stick! You don’t want your dentures to get stuck.
Chew your food slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time - this averts your dentures moving forward and tipping.
Get your hands on some denture adhesive
Adhesives are great as they keep your dentures in place and reassure you they’re secure. Remember to follow adhesive instructions properly and never use this to fix old or ill fitting dentures.
When should I see a dentist?
If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to take a trip to your dentists:
If your dentures click when you’re talking.
If your dentures have slipped or don’t fit properly.
If your mouth feels uncomfortable/painful.
If your dentures are visibly worn.
If you have signs of gum disease or tooth decay (bleeding gums or bad breath).
Why we don’t recommend D.I.Y kits
There are plenty of D.I.Y denture repair kits out there, but that doesn’t mean we should use them. If anything, trying to repair your denture yourself can cause more harm than good.
It may seem like a quick and easy fix to use one of these kits, but they can result in further damage and leave it impossible for them to be repaired by specialists. Leave repairs in the hands of the qualified professionals with the correct knowledge, skills and equipment to do your dentures justice.
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If you’re experiencing any issues with your dentures or you need advice, our team of specialists at Pinnacle Prosthetics can truly put you at ease.
With our efficient and expert service, we can identify the problem and provide the best solution to both complete and partial dentures.
You can send us an email at enquiries@pinnacleprosthetics.co.uk, speak with a member of our team on 01902 500 235 or check out our Instagram and Facebook profiles.