Don't Let a Broken Denture Ruin Your Smile: When to See a Professional
Navigating a damaged denture can be a stressful experience. The immediate instinct might be to reach for a quick fix, but knowing when to handle a small issue yourself and when to seek professional help is crucial for both the longevity of your dentures and your oral health.
The Dangers of DIY Denture Repair
While there are DIY repair kits and online tutorials promising a fast and cheap fix, these solutions can often do more harm than good. Here's why you should think twice before attempting to repair your dentures at home:
- Wrong Materials: The glues and adhesives in store-bought kits are often not biocompatible and can be toxic. Using them can cause irritation to your mouth's tissues and even lead to health issues.
- Improper Fit: Dentures are custom-made to fit the unique contours of your mouth. An at-home repair can alter the fit, leading to discomfort, sore spots, and an improper bite. This can further damage your dentures or cause harm to your gums and jawbone.
- Short-Term Solution: A DIY fix is almost always a temporary patch. It won't have the strength or durability of a professional repair and will likely fail again, potentially causing more extensive damage that is more costly to fix or requires a complete replacement.
When to See a Professional
For any significant damage, a professional denturist is your best and safest option. At Sullivan Denture Centre in Surrey, we have the expertise and the right tools at our in-house lab to perform a variety of repairs, including:
- Cracks and Breaks: A professional can properly bond the pieces of a cracked or broken denture using dental-grade materials, ensuring a strong and seamless repair.
- Replacing Missing Teeth: If a single tooth has fallen out, we can replace it and re-secure it in a way that maintains the structural integrity and aesthetic of your denture.
- Adjustments and Relining: Over time, your jawbone and gums naturally change, causing dentures to fit improperly. A professional can reline or adjust your dentures for a comfortable and secure fit.
- Repairing Metal Clasps: For partial dentures, a broken metal clasp can make the denture unstable. We can repair or replace these clasps to restore a snug fit.
Minor Maintenance You Can Do at Home
While complex repairs are best left to the experts, there are simple things you can do to maintain your dentures and prevent damage:
- Handle with Care: Always hold your dentures over a soft towel or a basin of water when cleaning them to prevent breakage if you drop them.
- Proper Cleaning: Use a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive cleanser to clean your dentures daily. This removes plaque and food particles without scratching the surface.
- Store Properly: When not wearing your dentures, keep them in a denture soaking solution or water to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.
Trust the Experts at Sullivan Denture Centre
A broken denture doesn't have to be a major setback. By choosing a professional, you're not just getting a repair—you're investing in your long-term oral health and comfort.
If your dentures are damaged, don't hesitate to reach out to the professionals. We’re here to help.







