Denture Repair for a Missing Denture Tooth

When denture wearers discover that a partial or full denture set has a broken tooth, their first instinct may be to try at-home denture repair. However, this is typically not the recommended option, as these procedures may result in further damage to the denture and, in some cases, harm to the people who try them. 

The risk of DIY denture repairs

When a tooth breaks off a set of dentures, wearers may believe a trip to the dentist is not necessary and that it can be fixed at home with some store-bought adhesive. This action can  have a variety of risks: 

• Improper placement of the tooth
• The use of toxic glues
• Irreparable damage to the denture or the tooth

While some at-home denture repair kits may allow wearers to temporarily fix the denture, attempted long-term repairs may result in the broken tooth dropping off the denture in the near future. 

How to handle a broken denture tooth

Experiencing a broken denture tooth can be stressful, but there are a few actions denture wearers can take if this happens and a dentist cannot be reached right away. Firstly, individuals may want to remove the dentures to examine where the tooth broke off and whether it cracked or broke apart as it fell out. Washing and drying the dentures carefully may allow wearers to see exactly where the damage occurred. It is generally wise to avoid reinserting the denture until it is examined by a dentist, and it can also be a good idea to store both the set and the tooth in a container to protect them from further damage, such as a fall. 

The benefits of clinical denture repair

Denture repair should be undertaken by the dentists who fitted them if possible, as this provides the wearer with a few benefits that cannot be achieved with a DIY repair. Perhaps the greatest advantage is that these dentists are familiar with both the patient’s dental history and needs, as well as with the denture set. Dentists also have the education and knowledge needed to properly repair a broken denture tooth in a way that may prevent the wearer from having to buy a whole new set, something that may be necessary if an in-home repair goes wrong and the glued tooth cannot be removed again. 

Repair options

Individuals who have a broken denture tooth may be given a variety of repair options at the dental clinic. For example, if the denture set is old, a realignment and placement of a new set could be recommended. Otherwise, the tooth may be repaired on that same visit so patients do not have to endure several days without their replacement teeth. New dental technology can allow patients to opt for a new type of denture that provides them with both comfort and durability. 

Conclusion

Most types of denture repair should be performed by a dentist who understands the history and needs of the patient. Careful and correct repairs can restore a missing denture tooth and ensure its strength for years to come. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.mysaratogadentist.com or call My Saratoga Dentist PLLC at (518) 675-3094 for an appointment in our Saratoga Springs office.

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