What Do I Do If I Damage My Dentures

Dentures are an essential tool for restoring function, appearance, and confidence for patients missing some or all of their teeth. However, accidents happen, and dentures can sometimes break, chip, crack, or become uncomfortable. A damaged denture can interfere with eating, speaking, and overall oral health if not addressed promptly. 

At Hathorne Family Dental in Danvers, MA, Dr. Keerthy Chilakamarry provides expert guidance and professional repair services to help patients manage and restore their dentures safely. Understanding how to handle damaged dentures, prevent further issues, and seek timely professional care can save both your oral health and your investment. 

DON’T WAIT TO FIX DAMAGED DENTURES—CONTACT DR. KEERTHY CHILAKAMARRY TODAY TO RESTORE YOUR SMILE AND COMFORT! 

Common Causes of Denture Damage in Danvers, MA 

Dentures are durable but can be vulnerable to damage due to various factors: 

Accidental Drops or Impacts 

• Dropping dentures onto hard surfaces is one of the most frequent causes of cracks or breaks. 

• Even minor drops can misalign the denture, affect fit, or create weak spots that worsen over time. 

Wear and Tear 

• Regular use over several years can cause gradual wear, leading to weakened areas or small fractures. 

• Aging dentures may require adjustment, repair, or replacement to maintain proper function and comfort. 

Poor Fit 

• Ill-fitting dentures can place uneven pressure on certain areas, leading to cracks or breakage. 

• Changes in the jawbone or gum tissue over time can affect how dentures fit, necessitating professional adjustments. 

Improper Handling 

• Using dentures roughly, bending them, or attempting DIY repairs can cause damage. 

• Dentures should always be handled carefully and stored properly to prevent accidental harm. 

Dietary Factors 

• Biting into very hard or sticky foods can stress dentures and contribute to chipping or cracking. 

• Patients should follow dietary recommendations to avoid unnecessary damage. 

Recognizing these causes can help patients prevent damage and maintain the longevity of their dentures. 

Types of Denture Damage 

Denture damage can vary in severity, and understanding the type of damage is essential for proper management: 

• Cracks – Small or large fissures in the denture base that can affect fit and comfort. 

• Chips – Pieces of the denture teeth or base that have broken off, often impacting aesthetics. 

• Fractures – Complete breaks that split the denture into two or more pieces. 

• Worn Teeth – Flattened or eroded denture teeth that reduce chewing efficiency. 

• Loose or Detached Teeth – Teeth that come loose from the denture base due to wear or impact. 

• Warping – Changes in the shape of the denture base, often caused by heat exposure or poor care. 

Different types of damage require different approaches for repair or replacement. 

Immediate Steps to Take if Your Dentures Are Damaged 

If you discover your dentures are damaged, taking the right steps quickly can prevent further harm: 

Stop Using the Damaged Denture 

• Avoid wearing a cracked or broken denture, as it can injure your gums or soft tissues. 

• Continuing to use a damaged denture may worsen the damage or cause infection. 

Handle with Care 

• Pick up the denture gently and avoid bending or forcing it back into place. 

• Place it on a soft towel or in a container to prevent additional accidents. 

Rinse and Inspect 

• Rinse the denture under lukewarm water to remove debris. 

• Examine the denture for visible cracks, chips, or loose teeth to inform your dentist about the damage. 

Contact Your Dentist Immediately 

• Call Hathorne Family Dental and schedule an urgent appointment with Dr. Keerthy Chilakamarry. 

• Prompt professional care ensures proper repair and prevents discomfort or complications. 

DAMAGED DENTURES CAN BE RESTORED SAFELY - SCHEDULE YOUR REPAIR WITH DR. KEERTHY CHILAKAMARRY TODAY! 

Professional Denture Repair Options in Danvers, MA 

The appropriate repair depends on the type and severity of the damage: 

Minor Chips and Cracks 

• Small chips can often be smoothed or restored without replacing the entire denture. 

• Acrylic or composite materials are used to restore the denture’s shape and appearance. 

Loose or Detached Teeth 

• Detached teeth can be reattached securely to the denture base using dental-grade adhesives. 

• Dr. Chilakamarry ensures the alignment and bite are corrected to maintain proper function. 

Fractured Dentures 

• Fully fractured dentures require professional bonding or, in some cases, a new denture fabrication. 

• The dentist will evaluate whether the repair will restore strength and comfort or if replacement is safer. 

Adjustments for Fit 

• Dentures that have warped or no longer fit correctly may need relining or reshaping. 

• Relining improves comfort, restores proper fit, and prevents further stress on the denture base. 

Full Denture Replacement 

• Severely damaged or old dentures may require complete replacement. 

• Modern materials and precision techniques ensure natural aesthetics, proper fit, and long-term durability. 

Professional evaluation ensures that dentures are repaired or replaced safely and functionally, preventing further oral complications. Contact us to learn more. 

Temporary Measures Before Your Dental Appointment 

While waiting for professional care, you can take temporary measures to protect your oral tissues and minimize discomfort: 

• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods – Stick to soft foods like soups, mashed vegetables, or yogurt. 

• Use Denture Adhesives Sparingly – Use them only if necessary, and avoid forcing broken parts together. 

• Maintain Oral Hygiene – Clean your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth to prevent irritation or infection. 

• Store Dentures Properly – Keep them in a container with water or denture solution to prevent drying or additional damage. 

These temporary steps help you stay comfortable and prevent further complications until you receive professional care. 

Caring for Dentures to Prevent Damage 

Proper denture care can significantly extend the life of your prosthetics and reduce the risk of damage: 

• Clean Daily – Brush dentures gently with a denture-specific brush and cleanser to remove debris. 

• Avoid Hot Water – High temperatures can warp the denture material. 

• Handle Carefully – Always hold dentures over a soft surface when cleaning to prevent accidental drops. 

• Regular Checkups – Schedule routine visits with Dr. Chilakamarry to monitor fit and condition. 

• Store Properly – Keep dentures in water or a denture-soaking solution when not in use to prevent drying or warping. 

Adopting these habits ensures your dentures remain functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing for years. 

Signs Your Dentures May Need Repair or Replacement 

Not all denture damage is immediately obvious. Watch for these warning signs: 

• Pain or Soreness – Irritation of the gums or soft tissues may indicate a poor fit or damage. 

• Difficulty Eating or Speaking – Changes in bite or slippage can suggest cracks or warping. 

• Visible Cracks, Chips, or Loose Teeth – Even small defects should be addressed promptly. 

• Unpleasant Odors or Stains – These may indicate that the denture surface is compromised. 

• Changes in Fit – Dentures that feel loose or unstable can affect comfort and oral health. 

Addressing these signs early prevents further damage and ensures continued comfort and function. 

When to Seek Immediate Dental Attention 

Certain situations require urgent care: 

• Complete Fracture – If your denture breaks into two or more pieces, do not attempt to wear it. 

• Sharp Edges Causing Injury – Chips or cracks that irritate your gums need immediate professional attention. 

• Infection or Sores – Pain, swelling, or bleeding under your denture may indicate infection. 

• Severely Loose Teeth – Detached teeth that affect your bite or comfort should be repaired promptly. 

Immediate evaluation by Dr. Chilakamarry ensures proper treatment and prevents complications like infection or tissue damage. 

Conclusion 

Damaged dentures can affect your comfort, oral health, and confidence. Taking immediate and careful action, combined with professional repair or replacement, ensures that your dentures continue to function properly and look natural. 

At Hathorne Family Dental in Danvers, MA, Dr. Keerthy Chilakamarry provides expert denture repair, adjustments, and replacement options tailored to each patient’s needs. By addressing issues promptly and following proper care practices, you can protect your oral health and maintain a confident, functional smile. Don’t let damaged dentures interrupt your life. Contact Hathorne Family Dental today to restore your smile and comfort! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

• Can I fix my dentures at home? 

Home repair kits are not recommended, as improper handling can cause further damage. Professional evaluation ensures safe and effective repair. 

• How long does it take to repair a denture? 

Minor repairs may be completed in a single visit, while more extensive damage or replacement may take several days. 

• What should I do if my denture cracks while wearing it? 

Stop wearing the denture immediately to avoid injury and contact your dentist for urgent evaluation. 

• Can a broken denture cause infection? 

Yes, sharp edges or broken parts can injure gums and lead to irritation or infection. 

• How can I prevent dentures from breaking? 

Handle dentures carefully, clean daily, avoid hard foods, and store them properly when not in use. 

• How often should I replace my dentures? 

Dentures typically last 5–10 years, but wear, damage, or changes in oral structure may require earlier replacement. 

• Are all denture repairs permanent? 

Most professional repairs are long-lasting, but severely damaged or old dentures may require replacement. 

• Will my repaired denture feel different? 

A professionally repaired denture should feel comfortable and function normally. Minor adjustments may be made to ensure proper fit and bite. 

• Can I eat normally after denture repair? 

Yes, once your denture is professionally repaired and properly fitted, you can resume eating as usual, starting with softer foods if recommended. 

• How do I know if my denture needs a full replacement instead of repair? 

If the denture is severely cracked, warped, or worn, or if multiple repairs have been needed over time, Dr. Chilakamarry may recommend a full replacement for safety, comfort, and long-term durability.