Dentures are fairly fragile and can be damaged easily. The most common way for a denture to be damaged is by dropping it when you take it out to clean it. You will probably find that your dentures become more fragile after you have had them for a long time, as they may become worn and thin.
To minimise the risk of damage, try to ensure you stand over the sink or place a towel on the counter when you take your dentures out and clean them. Try to keep your dentures in a protective case when you are not wearing them, to stop them from getting damaged or broken.
If you break or damage your dentures, try to store them to in cold water until you can see your dentist. If bits have chipped off, try to find them and keep them with the rest of the denture. In many cases, dentists are able to repair damaged dentures. If you cannot see a dentist soon after the dentures become damaged, you may wish to consider having a go at repairing it yourself using a denture repair kit. However, it is always best to try and see a dentist as soon as possible and you should only try to repair it yourself if you are absolutely sure how to do it.
In the majority of cases, dentists can repair broken dentures on the same day as your appointment. However, in more complex cases, it may take longer to repair the dentures. In some cases, if the dentures are severely damaged, your dentist may recommend getting a new set of dentures.
If you have not had your dentures relined and you have had them for a while, your dentist may send them off to the laboratory so that they can be relined and repaired by technicians at the same time. Over time the dentures can become damaged and loose, due to the shape of the mouth changing all the time. A reline will ensure the dentures fit properly and will reduce the risk of infection and gum problems, as well as making them more comfortable.
Denture repair kits can be very useful if you are out and about and your dentures get damaged. There are various kits on the market and they are very affordable, starting at just £5.
If you damage your dentures, you can use the repair kit to make temporary repairs if you cannot make an appointment with your dentist. The repair kit contains resin, which you can mix and make up yourself. The resin is used to repair cracks and damaged teeth.
If you use the denture repair kit, you should try to see your dentist shortly afterwards, as poor fitting dentures can lead to sore and inflamed gums and bacterial infections. If you repair the dentures yourself they may not work as well as before and you may need to get a new set of dentures.
Some denture repair kits are much more comprehensive than others. A basic kit will usually repair minor cracks but it is always best to see your dentist.