Dentures are a great way to replace your missing teeth because they help improve your daily quality of life. With them in place, you can fully enunciate words and sounds while speaking so that you can be better understood. They also allow you to properly mash your food while eating so that you can continue to enjoy a healthy diet.
If your restoration has cracked or broken, you might find yourself wondering what to do next. Do you need to contact your dentist right away or can it wait? In many cases, broken dentures are considered an emergency and require immediate attention. Keep reading to learn why!
Why Did My Dentures Break?
Although your dentures are made to be sturdy, the lifelike materials aren’t entirely invincible. There are several ways they can be injured, including:
- Heavy impact. It’s recommended that you remove your artificial teeth twice daily to clean them, but you should be extra cautious because they can become slippery and fall. If they land on too hard a surface or are dropped from a high place, they’re likely to crack or fracture.
- Regular wear and tear. Dentures can last anywhere from 7 to 10 years and become worn down after years of biting and chewing. As they weaken, they become more susceptible to physical harm.
- Eating the wrong foods. You should avoid anything overly sugary, acidic, or hard because it can be abrasive for your restoration. The materials can break down and cause long-term or irreversible damage.
What Should I Do If My Dentures Break?
If you realize that your restoration is cracked or broken, contact your dentist to try to make an appointment as soon as possible. It’s considered an emergency because if the structure of your dentures is compromised, they won’t fit correctly. They’re more likely to rub raw spots in your mouth that can become infected and your ability to eat and speak is hindered.
Many patients feel compelled to try to fix their artificial teeth at home using super glue or other solutions, but these are often toxic and not intended for oral use. Meanwhile, your dentist has access to the right materials to either repair or replace your dentures as needed. In some cases, a simple relining is sufficient to ensure that they still fit correctly. If the damage is too severe, however, you’ll need their help to order a new set.
You might not think of it as an emergency, but if your dentures are broken then you should contact your dentist right away!
About the Practice
At Beverly Farms Dental, for 30 years people of all ages have benefited from a team of dentists who work together to provide a full array of services under one roof, including dentures. They take pride in combining a gentle, compassionate approach with years of experience to meet even the most complex dental needs. Plus, they take the time to get to know each patient’s unique circumstances so that they can offer completely individualized solutions. If you’re having a dental emergency, they offer same-day appointments so that you don’t have to wait to get the help you need. If your dentures have been injured, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (978) 927-3515.