These days, DIY solutions are trending- even when it comes to dental issues. One of the heavily debated topics is how to fix broken dentures. Many of our patients at Legacy Dental wonder if it’s best to fix the problem themselves or if it would be better to come into the clinic. This depends on several factors:
It’s easy to take your dentures for granted- until they break. Once they’re gone, it can be debilitating. We understand that you want them fixed as soon as possible, and while it can be beneficial to do a DIY repair, it can also cause more damage. In this article, we’ll look at fixing your broken dentures at home and whether it’s a good idea or a bad one.
Any DIY project comes with risks. When you’re considering a DIY repair on your dentures, it’s important to consider the pros and cons.
For example, if you are not careful, you may introduce some damaging elements to your mouth. Certain types of glue contain harmful chemicals, and some may not hold for very long, especially in a damp environment like your mouth. Additionally, it’s important to note that some may cause further damage to your dentures.
Small breaks can easily be put back together at home. However, if you do a DIY repair, it’s important to let the professionals at Legacy Dental evaluate the repair.
When considering denture repair, you should think of them in two categories: short-term and long-term fixes. Short-term fixes are not a bad thing, and we encourage you to do them when needed. However, keep in mind that they are called short-term for a reason: they only last a short time and almost always lead to breaks in the future.
Typically, dentures break at the worst possible time- usually outside of regular office hours. While we do offer emergency treatment, you may not be able to get to the office for some reason. If this is the case, a short-term fix is perfectly fine.
Most pharmacies carry denture repair kits that include tools and solutions you need for a temporary fix. However, while many of these kits advertise themselves as a “permanent solution”, it’s important to remember that the only permanent solution is to let a professional handle it. This will ensure that your dentures fit properly and won’t cause irritation to your gums or harm to your jaw.
Can I use super glue to fix my broken dentures?
In a real emergency, super glue can be effective and will usually hold for at least a few days. However, make sure that you allow the glue to dry completely before putting your dentures in. If not, you’ll experience a chemical taste, and super glue is toxic, so it may make you sick.
Never wear broken dentures
The important thing to remember is that you should never wear broken dentures. This can cause additional breakage, as well as other issues with your mouth. Broken dentures need to be repaired as soon as possible.
If your dentures break, we encourage you to contact the team at Legacy Dental. We have the experience and expertise to complete long-term repairs or order a replacement if needed. In the meantime, feel free to try a DIY repair; just make sure to keep in mind that DIY repair should never be seen as a long-term solution.
