What You Should - And Should Not - Do If You've Broken Your Dentures
Nothing lasts forever and this applies to your dentures, just like everything else. Over time they will become more susceptible to damage or breakage, no matter how careful you are when it comes to looking after them. If you're unfortunate enough to sustain some damage to your dentures, what should you do and what should you avoid, even though you may be tempted?
What Goes Wrong?
As you get older the shape of your mouth will change ever so slightly. It's not something that you will notice, but it means that the dentures that you were fitted some time back will not fit quite so well. In this case, the plates will tend to move around more as you go through your daily life, chewing food or talking. Of course, the dentures are designed to be retained in place and will still be working hard to achieve this. However, this means that the components will be flexing more than they should and this will ultimately cause cracks or breaks.
If you notice any sign that things aren't right it's best to take action as soon as possible, otherwise the teeth themselves could become loose as well.
Don't DIY
Even though you may be tempted to try and save time and resources, you really need to go through the proper process and visit your dentist first. You shouldn't take it on yourself to send your dentures directly to a laboratory first, even though this is an option you may be able to find online. Also, you shouldn't try and effect the repair yourself. The laboratory is not going to simply "glue" pieces back together as you may.
Stronger Than before
When you send dentures back to the lab they are going to go through a process of creating a plaster cast or a silicone compound in order to generate a new mold. The technician will then address the location where the dentures have cracked and replace the entire area with new acrylic. Now, rather than being weaker after the damage the dentures will be actually stronger. They will be made to the exact same specification, subject to any adjustments that the dentist may request.
Fine Tuning Is Important
This is also why it's very important to go through the dentist, rather than trying to deal with a laboratory yourself directly. The lab will not be able to fit them into your mouth, of course and will only be able to make repairs according to the original specification. Your dentist, on the other hand, will carefully fit the denture and make any necessary adjustments before you leave.
So, rather than looking for the most direct way of dealing with the issue, always visit the dentist first for their help in the process.
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