Can I Repair My Own Dentures

A pair of dentures is an investment in a healthy, natural-looking smile. If a patient's set breaks, it may seem tempting to try to perform an at-home repair. However, this is not a wise idea, and it can cause additional problems.

Repairing dentures at home is generally not recommended, as it requires specialized materials and skills that are best handled by a qualified dentist in Phoenix, AZ. Dentures are custom-made appliances that require precise adjustments and repairs to ensure proper fit and function. Attempting to repair dentures at home without the necessary expertise and equipment can lead to further damage and compromise the effectiveness of the dentures.

Why is it a bad idea for patients to repair their own dentures?

Dentures need to be professionally fitted to a patient. If they break, a professional re-fitting is needed after repair to ensure any needed adjustments can be made. Attempting to self-repair dentures can also cause problems for the patient and the prosthetics themselves.

Glues and other bonding agents can cause mouth irritation

Some patients turn to glue or similar agents to repair their dentures. However, these glues can cause serious irritation in the mouth, as they are not designed for oral use. Doing a denture self-repair with glue can sometimes cause an unpleasant taste, and some glues can be toxic.

The dentures may break even more

These prosthetics are delicate and can be easily broken. If someone without training attempts to make a repair, they may accidentally break the dentures further. In some cases, a DIY repair can even ruin a set completely.

A DIY fix may not fit properly

To function like natural teeth, dentures must be very closely fitted to a patient's gums. Even if a patient succeeds at a temporary at-home fix, the prosthetics may no longer fit properly. A set of dentures that fits too loosely may fall out at inopportune times, while a too-tight-fitting set can cause painful gum irritation.

What steps should a patient take if dentures break?

Attempting to fix dentures at home is not a good idea. If a patient damages their dental prosthetics, it is important to contact a dental office as soon as possible. In the meantime, there are a few other precautions to take. Call us to learn more.

Make sure to gather all parts

If dentures break, it is important to double-check to make sure all missing parts have been found. If they break after being dropped on the ground, it is possible for bits of the denture or wiring to scatter. Patients should thoroughly search the area where the dentures were broken to ensure all parts have been accounted for.

Store the dentures properly

Even if it is physically possible to do so, patients should not try to wear damaged dentures. Doing so can both irritate the mouth and further damage the set. Before taking dentures in for repair, patients should make sure they are stored in a protective case or soaking in a denture-specific solution. If the prosthetics normally need to be soaked overnight to retain shape, patients should keep them soaking if possible.

Conclusion

If your dentures are damaged or broken, it's best to schedule an appointment with your dentist in 85053 or prosthodontist for professional evaluation and repair. A dental professional has the expertise, experience, and resources to assess the extent of the damage and recommend the most appropriate course of action to restore your dentures to their optimal condition.

In some cases, minor adjustments or repairs can be made quickly and efficiently in the dental office, while more extensive repairs may require sending the dentures to a dental laboratory for professional repair or replacement. Your dentist can advise you on the best options for repairing or replacing your dentures based on your individual needs and circumstances.

Request an appointment or call Phoenix Family Dentistry at 602-547-9007 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.