Dentures are valuable dental appliances that many individuals rely on daily for eating, speaking, and maintaining facial structure. However, accidents can happen, and dentures could get damaged or broken over time. Knowing what to do if you damage your dentures can help you address the issue promptly and ensure your continued comfort and oral health.
At Samuel Dental Care in Sacramento, CA, under the expert care of Dr. Naveen
Samuel, we are committed to providing comprehensive guidance on caring for
your dentures. Here’s what you need to know:
Understanding Denture Damage
Dentures are durable dental appliances designed to withstand daily wear and tear. However, several factors can damage dentures over time. Understanding these common reasons can help you take preventive measures and prolong the lifespan of your dentures. Here are some typical causes of denture damage:
-
Accidental drops: Dropping dentures, especially onto
hard surfaces like tile or ceramic floors, can cause fractures, chips,
or breaks in the denture base or teeth.
-
Poor fit: Ill-fitting dentures can put undue stress on
certain areas, leading to cracks or fractures over time. This is often
exacerbated by changes in the jawbone structure or gum tissues.
-
Biting hard objects: Biting down on hard foods, ice
cubes, or using your dentures as tools to open packages can cause damage
to the denture material or even break teeth.
-
Normal wear and tear: Daily use of dentures can
gradually wear down the material, affecting the fit and function. Over
time, this wear can lead to changes in the denture's shape and
effectiveness.
-
Improper care and cleaning: Using abrasive toothpaste,
harsh cleaners, or hot water can damage denture materials. Additionally,
improper cleaning techniques may not effectively remove food debris or
plaque, leading to bacterial growth and oral health issues.
-
Dryness: Allowing dentures to dry out can cause them to
become brittle and more prone to damage. Proper storage in a denture
soaking solution or water is essential to maintain their integrity.
-
Changes in oral anatomy: Natural changes in your mouth,
such as bone resorption or gum recession, can alter the fit of dentures
over time. Poorly fitting dentures can cause discomfort and contribute
to damage if not adjusted or relined.
-
Chemical damage: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as
those found in some cleaning products or strong mouthwashes, can degrade
denture materials over time.
-
Age of dentures: As dentures age, the materials can
weaken, making them more susceptible to damage from routine activities.
Contact us to learn more.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you damage your dentures, follow these immediate steps:
-
Assess the damage: Carefully examine your dentures to
determine the extent of the damage. Avoid trying to fix them yourself
using household adhesives or tools, as this can cause further harm.
-
Remove and rinse: Take out your dentures and gently
rinse them under cool water to remove any debris or dirt. Handle them
carefully to avoid causing additional damage.
-
Store safely: Place your dentures in a safe container
or case filled with water or a denture cleaning solution. This prevents
them from drying out and helps maintain their shape until you can see
your dentist.
-
Contact your dentist: It’s crucial to contact Samuel
Dental Care as soon as possible if your dentures are damaged. Prompt,
professional assistance ensures that your dentures are repaired
correctly and quickly. Here’s what you can expect during the repair
process:
-
Evaluation: Dr. Naveen Samuel will carefully examine
your damaged dentures to assess the best course of action for repair.
In some cases, repairs may be completed in-office, while more
extensive damage may require sending the dentures to a dental
laboratory.
-
Repair options: Depending on the nature of the
damage, repair options may include:
-
Minor adjustments: Small cracks or adjustments to
the fit of the dentures.
-
Replacement of teeth: Repairing or replacing
broken or chipped teeth on the denture.
-
Reattachment: Securing or replacing components
like clasps or the denture base.
Preventing Future Damage
To minimize the risk of damaging your dentures in the future, consider the
following tips:
-
Handle with care: Always handle your dentures over a
soft towel or basin of water to cushion any accidental drops.
-
Regular inspections: Inspect your dentures regularly
for signs of wear or damage. Minor issues detected early can prevent
more significant problems later on.
-
Proper cleaning: Clean your dentures daily as
recommended by Dr. Samuel. Use a denture brush and mild cleanser to
remove food particles and plaque, which can weaken the denture material
over time.
-
Professional checkups: Schedule regular dental
checkups at Samuel Dental Care. Dr. Samuel will examine your dentures
and oral health, ensuring they fit properly and function optimally.
Common Issues and Solutions
If you experience any discomfort or notice changes in the fit or function
of your dentures, contact Samuel Dental Care promptly. Common issues may
include:
-
Sore spots: Adjustments may be needed to relieve
pressure points on your gums.
-
Poor fit: Changes in your jawbone or gums over time can
affect the fit of your dentures. Dr. Samuel can adjust or reline them
for a better fit.
-
Cracked Dentures: Avoid using damaged dentures, as this
can cause further harm to your oral tissues. Seek professional repair
services promptly.
Conclusion
Damaging your dentures can be a stressful experience, but knowing how to
respond can help alleviate concerns and ensure swift resolution. At Samuel
Dental Care, Dr. Naveen Samuel and our dedicated team are here to provide
you with the highest level of care and expertise in denture repair and
maintenance.
If you have damaged your dentures or have any concerns about their fit or
function, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment. We’re
committed to helping you maintain a healthy smile and optimal oral health.