What Should I Do If I Break My Denture

Discover the immediate steps to take and professional solutions available when facing a broken denture emergency.

Common Ways Dentures Break or Become Damaged

Dentures are designed to be durable, but they’re not indestructible. Understanding how dentures typically break can help you appreciate why proper handling is so important. At Haight Family Dentistry in Plano, we’ve seen many types of denture damage over the years, and patients often ask us, “What do I do if I break my denture?”

Denture breakage and damage typically happen in these common scenarios:

Dropping Your Dentures

Perhaps the most frequent cause of broken dentures is accidentally dropping them. This often occurs during cleaning or when removing them at night. The impact with a hard surface like a bathroom sink or floor can cause various types of damage:

• Cracked or split denture base
• Broken or chipped teeth
• Fractured clasps on partial dentures
• Complete breaks that separate the denture into multiple pieces

Poorly Fitting Dentures

When dentures don’t fit properly, they can flex during chewing, creating stress points that eventually lead to breaks. This is often seen when:

• Your mouth’s structure has changed over time due to bone resorption
• You’ve lost or gained significant weight
• Your dentures are older and worn
• Your dentures weren’t properly fitted initially

Many patients facing this situation wonder, “What do I do if I break my denture that doesn’t fit well anymore?” In these cases, a simple repair might not be the best long-term solution.

Wear and Tear Over Time

Even the highest quality dentures experience wear over time. Materials can become brittle or thin with age, making them more susceptible to breakage. Common wear-related issues include:

• Thinning of the denture base
• Worn down artificial teeth
• Stress fractures that develop gradually
• Metal fatigue in partial denture frameworks

Teeth Grinding or Clenching

If you grind or clench your teeth (bruxism), this habit puts additional stress on your dentures that they weren’t designed to withstand, potentially leading to:

• Cracked or chipped artificial teeth
• Breaks along the denture base
• Loosened teeth in the denture
• Accelerated wear patterns

Temperature Damage

Exposure to extreme temperatures can warp or damage denture materials:

• Using very hot water for cleaning
• Leaving dentures in a hot car
• Boiling dentures in an attempt to sterilize them
• Accidentally using hot beverages while wearing dentures

Immediate Actions When Your Denture Breaks

If you find yourself thinking, “What do I do if I break my denture right now?” – here are the immediate steps you should take:

Gather All the Pieces

Carefully collect all pieces of your broken denture, no matter how small they might seem:

• Search thoroughly in the area where the break occurred
• Check clothing, sink traps, or drains if applicable
• Place all pieces in a clean container
• If possible, avoid touching the broken edges which might be sharp

Small fragments may be important for a proper repair, so don’t discard anything until a dental professional has evaluated the damage.

Clean the Broken Denture

Gently rinse the broken pieces with cool water to remove any debris:

• Use cool or lukewarm water only (hot water could further damage the denture)
• Don’t use harsh cleaning products or toothpaste on the broken areas
• Pat dry with a soft cloth rather than rubbing
• Handle delicately to avoid creating additional breaks or chips

Avoid DIY Repairs

One of the most important answers to “What do I do if I break my denture?” is what NOT to do. Resist the temptation to repair the denture yourself with household adhesives or glues:

• Household glues contain chemicals that can be toxic and aren’t safe for use in your mouth
• DIY repairs can permanently damage the denture material
• Amateur repairs can make professional restoration more difficult or impossible
• Improperly repaired dentures can cause irritation, sores, or injuries to your mouth

Contact Your Dentist Immediately

Call Haight Family Dentistry or your regular dental provider as soon as possible:

• Explain the nature of the break clearly
• Ask if they can accommodate emergency denture repairs
• Inquire about temporary solutions if immediate repair isn’t possible
• Be prepared to describe how the break occurred, as this helps determine the appropriate repair method

Many dental practices, including ours in Plano, reserve time for dental emergencies, including broken dentures.

Temporary Solutions While Waiting for Repair

If you’re wondering, “What do I do if I break my denture and can’t see my dentist right away?” – there are some temporary measures you can take:

• For a minor crack or chip that doesn’t affect fit: You may be able to continue wearing the denture briefly until your appointment, if it’s not causing discomfort
• For a broken tooth on the denture: If the denture base is intact and the missing tooth isn’t in a highly visible area, you might be able to wear it temporarily
• For a denture broken in half: Generally, you should not attempt to wear it, as this could cause oral injuries or further damage the appliance
• Dental adhesive: For very minor breaks, dental adhesive might help hold the denture in place temporarily, but this is not a repair solution

Remember that these are only temporary measures while you arrange professional repair. Continuing to wear a broken denture for an extended period can lead to oral tissue irritation, changes in your bite, and further damage to the denture itself.

Professional Repair Options

When considering “What do I do if I break my denture?”, understanding the professional repair options available will help you make informed decisions:

In-Office Repairs

Some denture damages can be addressed directly in the dental office:

• Minor cracks in the denture base
• Replacement of a dislodged tooth
• Small adjustments to improve fit
• Adding or repairing a clasp on a partial denture

These repairs might be completed while you wait or within a few hours, depending on the specific damage and the dental office’s capabilities.

Laboratory Repairs

More significant damage typically requires laboratory work:

• Dentures broken in multiple pieces
• Complex fractures
• Replacement of several teeth
• Rebuilding portions of the denture base

For laboratory repairs, your dentist will take an impression of your mouth to ensure the repaired denture will fit properly. The denture is then sent to a dental laboratory, with repair times typically ranging from one day to one week depending on the extent of damage.

Reline or Rebase

Sometimes when a denture breaks, it’s because the fit has changed over time, placing stress on certain areas. In these cases, your dentist might recommend:

• Relining: Adding new base material to improve the fit of the denture to your gums
• Rebasing: Replacing the entire base material while keeping the existing teeth
• Combination repair: Fixing the break while also improving the overall fit

These procedures help ensure that once repaired, your denture won’t be prone to breaking again due to fitting issues.

Complete Replacement

In some situations, the best answer to “What do I do if I break my denture beyond repair?” is to replace it entirely:

• When the denture is severely damaged
• When the denture is quite old (typically over 5-7 years)
• When your mouth has changed significantly since the original fitting
• When multiple repairs have already been made previously

While replacement might seem like a bigger investment initially, it often proves more cost-effective than continuing to repair an outdated or poorly fitting denture.

What to Expect During Professional Denture Repair

If you’re wondering, “What do I do if I break my denture and take it for professional repair?”, here’s what the process typically involves:

Assessment

Your dentist will carefully examine the broken denture to determine:

• The extent of damage
• The cause of the break
• Whether repair is possible and advisable
• The best approach for restoration

This examination might include checking your oral tissues for any irritation or changes that could have contributed to the break.

Discussion of Options

Based on the assessment, your dentist will discuss:

• Repair possibilities and limitations
• Estimated timeline for repair
• Cost considerations
• Alternative solutions if repair isn’t ideal
• Preventive measures to avoid future breaks

At Haight Family Dentistry, we ensure patients fully understand their options before proceeding with any denture work.

Impressions (If Needed)

For certain repairs, new impressions of your mouth may be necessary to ensure the repaired denture will fit properly. This is particularly important if:

• It’s been more than a year since your last dental check-up
• Your oral tissues have changed noticeably
• The denture was breaking due to fit issues
• You’ve lost or gained significant weight recently

Temporary Solutions

If your repair will take multiple days, your dentist may provide temporary options:

• A temporary partial denture for essential front teeth
• Dental adhesive recommendations for dentures with minor damage
• Guidance on diet modifications while without your denture
• Soft tissue care advice to maintain oral health during the interim

Repair and Follow-Up

Once repaired, your dentist will:

• Check the fit of the restored denture
• Make any necessary adjustments
• Provide care instructions
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if needed to monitor how the repaired denture is functioning

Cost Considerations for Denture Repairs

When facing a broken denture, financial concerns often arise alongside the practical question of “What do I do if I break my denture?” Here’s what to know about the costs involved:

Factors Affecting Repair Costs

The price of denture repair varies based on:

• Type and extent of damage
• Whether laboratory work is required
• Materials needed for the repair
• Whether additional procedures (like relining) are necessary
• Your location and the specific dental practice

Insurance Coverage

Many dental insurance plans provide some coverage for denture repairs:

• Typical coverage ranges from 50-80% of the repair cost
• Annual maximums and deductibles apply
• Replacement dentures may have waiting periods or frequency limitations
• Some plans distinguish between repairs and replacements in their coverage terms

At Haight Family Dentistry in Plano, our team can help you understand your insurance benefits and maximize your coverage.

Comparing Repair vs. Replacement Costs

Sometimes patients ask, “What do I do if I break my denture and it’s expensive to fix?” In these cases, it’s worth comparing:

• The immediate cost of repair versus replacement
• The expected longevity of the repaired denture
• Whether additional repairs might be needed soon
• The functional improvements a new denture might provide

While repairs are typically less expensive in the short term, multiple repairs on an aging denture can eventually exceed the cost of replacement.

Payment Options

Many dental practices offer payment solutions to help manage the cost of denture repairs or replacements:

• Payment plans that spread costs over time
• Healthcare credit options like CareCredit
• Senior discounts
• New patient specials
• Cash discounts

Preventing Future Denture Damage

After experiencing a broken denture and asking “What do I do if I break my denture?”, most patients are eager to prevent a recurrence. Here are essential preventive measures:

Proper Daily Handling

Many denture breaks are preventable with careful handling:

• Always handle your denture over a folded towel or basin of water
• Hold your denture firmly but gently when cleaning
• Avoid gripping the flexible parts of partial dentures
• Use both hands when inserting or removing your denture
• Never force a denture into position

Effective Cleaning Practices

Proper cleaning not only maintains oral health but also preserves your denture:

• Use denture-specific cleansers rather than abrasive toothpastes
• Clean with a soft-bristled brush designed for dentures
• Avoid hot or boiling water which can warp the denture material
• Rinse thoroughly after using cleaning solutions
• Follow the specific care instructions for your type of denture

Proper Storage

When not wearing your denture, proper storage is crucial:

• Keep dentures in water or denture-soaking solution when not in mouth
• Never wrap dentures in tissue or paper towels (they can be mistaken for trash)
• Use a designated denture container with your name on it
• Keep dentures away from curious pets or children
• Avoid extreme temperatures during storage

Regular Professional Check-ups

Even if your dentures seem to be functioning well, regular dental visits help prevent problems:

• Professional cleanings remove stubborn deposits
• Your dentist can identify early signs of wear or stress
• Minor adjustments can prevent pressure points that might lead to breaks
• Changes in fit can be addressed before they cause damage
• Professional maintenance extends the life of your denture

At Haight Family Dentistry, we recommend denture wearers visit at least annually for an evaluation of both their dentures and oral tissues.

When to Consider a Denture Replacement

Being proactive about replacement can prevent unexpected breaks:

• Most dentures should be evaluated for replacement every 5-7 years
• Consider replacement if you’ve had multiple repairs
• If your facial appearance has changed noticeably
• When chewing efficiency has decreased
• If your denture frequently feels loose despite use of adhesives

Advanced Options Beyond Traditional Denture Repair

If you’ve repeatedly found yourself asking, “What do I do if I break my denture again and again?”, it might be time to consider alternative solutions:

Implant-Supported Dentures

Dental implants can provide additional support for dentures, offering several advantages:

• Greater stability and reduced movement
• Less pressure on the gum tissues
• Reduced bone loss in the jaw
• Lower likelihood of breakage from flexing
• Improved chewing efficiency

Implant-supported options range from dentures with two implants for improved stability to full fixed bridges supported by multiple implants.

Flexible Denture Materials

Newer denture materials offer improved durability and comfort:

• Flexible nylon materials resist breakage better than traditional acrylic
• Thermoplastic materials can be more comfortable and less likely to crack
• Hybrid materials combine the benefits of multiple denture materials
• Metal-reinforced options provide additional strength in vulnerable areas

Digital Denture Technology

Modern digital technology has revolutionized denture fabrication:

• CAD/CAM designed dentures offer precise fit
• Digital records make replacement or duplication easier if breaks occur
• 3D-printed dentures can be produced quickly when needed
• Higher-density materials available through digital processes can be more durable

Spare Dentures

For some patients, having a backup denture is the best solution:

• Provides an immediate alternative if your primary denture breaks
• Can be used while primary denture is being repaired
• Eliminates being without teeth during repair periods
• Often more economical than emergency repair services

What to Do When Traveling with Dentures

A common concern is, “What do I do if I break my denture while traveling?” Here are some tips for handling this situation:

Preparation Before Travel

• Pack a denture repair kit for temporary fixes
• Bring proper storage containers and cleaning supplies
• Know your dental insurance’s out-of-network and emergency coverage
• Consider taking a spare denture if you have one
• Store your dentist’s contact information in your phone

Finding Emergency Dental Care While Traveling

If a break occurs while you’re away from home:

• Ask your hotel concierge for recommendations
• Contact your dental insurance for in-network providers in the area
• Look for dental schools which may offer repair services
• Search online for dentists who specifically mention denture repairs or emergency services
• Consider local denture clinics which specialize in repairs

Returning Home for Treatment

In some cases, it might be better to wait until you return home for repair:

• For minor damage that doesn’t affect function
• If you have a backup denture with you
• When you’ll be returning home within a few days
• If language barriers make explaining the precise issue difficult

Special Considerations for Different Types of Dentures

The answer to “What do I do if I break my denture?” varies somewhat depending on the type of denture you have:

Complete Dentures

Full dentures replacing all teeth in an arch have specific concerns:

• Breaks often occur across the palate or midline
• Typically require laboratory repair for structural breaks
• May need relining if the break was caused by poor fit
• Often fixable unless severely damaged

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures have different components that can break:

• Metal clasps may break or bend
• Connection points between the acrylic and metal framework are vulnerable
• Repairs must maintain proper alignment with natural teeth
• Often more complex to repair than full dentures

Immediate Dentures

These temporary dentures placed immediately after tooth extraction present unique challenges:

• May break more easily as gums change shape during healing
• Often require more frequent adjustments and relines
• May be considered sacrificial, with replacement expected
• Repairs should be considered in context of the transition to permanent dentures

Implant-Supported Dentures

When implant-supported dentures break, additional considerations include:

• Damage to attachment mechanisms
• Potential stress on implants if not repaired properly
• Higher repair costs due to specialized components
• Need for precision in repair to maintain proper implant connection

Partnering with Haight Family Dentistry for Denture Care

At our Plano dental practice, we understand how disruptive a broken denture can be to your daily life. When patients ask us, “What do I do if I break my denture?”, we offer comprehensive support:

Emergency Appointments

We reserve time in our schedule specifically for urgent dental needs, including denture repairs. Our goal is to restore your smile and function as quickly as possible.

Experienced Denture Care

Our team has extensive experience with all types of denture repairs and replacements. We carefully evaluate each situation to recommend the most appropriate solution—whether that’s a simple repair, a more comprehensive restoration, or a new denture with improved materials and fit.

Focus on Prevention

Beyond just fixing the immediate problem, we help you understand what caused the break and how to prevent similar issues in the future. This might include adjusting your denture care routine, recommending different cleaning products, or addressing underlying oral health concerns.

Ongoing Support

We provide continuous care for denture wearers:

• Regular check-ups to evaluate denture condition
• Professional cleanings to remove stubborn deposits
• Assessments of oral tissues for health and changes
• Minor adjustments to maintain optimal fit
• Guidance on when to consider replacement

Advanced Options

For patients who have experienced repeated denture problems, we offer consultations on advanced alternatives such as implant-supported dentures or newer flexible materials that may better suit your lifestyle and needs.

Dealing with a broken denture can be stressful, but knowing exactly what to do helps you handle the situation calmly and effectively. Remember that professional repair is always the best option for restoring your denture’s function, appearance, and safety.

If you’re currently dealing with a broken denture or want to discuss preventive care for your existing dentures, Schedule Your Appointment with Haight Family Dentistry today. We’re committed to helping you maintain a comfortable, functional smile.

For emergency denture repair or to schedule a consultation, call Haight Family Dentistry at 972-527-5555.

Haight Family Dentistry
Providing comprehensive denture care to Plano residents and surrounding communities
Call us: 972-527-5555