Dentures are removable appliances that help people eat and smile with confidence after teeth loss. While these appliances can be very sturdy and long-lasting, they can still get damaged.

A fractured denture base is one of the common types of damage that can occur with dentures (especially full or complete dentures), and below is everything you need to know about its causes, prevention and repair options.

Causes of Denture Fractures

Accidental Dropping or Banging – A very common cause of denture fracture is accidental dropping. It can be either due to the denture falling into the sink or being knocked off the tap while it is being cleaned. Several studies have shown that while the denture may not instantly break when dropped, the impact of the drop can however weaken a spot which can then fracture later during use. Trauma to the mouth either from accidents or contact sports, can also cause a denture to fracture or break.

Poor Denture Fit – When dentures are not properly fitted, they tend to move around in the mouth every time the wearer speaks or chews. The levering effect from chewing with loose dentures and the resulting unevenness of your bite force can cause the base of your dentures to become weakened over time. Due to this weakened denture base, you may even notice a small fine line appearing on the denture. These lines proceed to spread into a full crack or fracture.

Overtime Wear and Tear – Although dentures are made from highly durable materials, over time, wear and tear can cause their base material to become weak and possibly fracture. Also, as dentures get older, their fit tends to become looser, which leads to the rocking of the dentures when they are worn. This repetitive flexing can weaken the plastic, leading to a fracture or break.

Tips for Preventing Denture Fractures and Breaks

Keep Your Dentures Moist – When dentures dry out, the acrylic material of their base becomes brittle and prone to cracks and splits. The dryness can also cause the dentures to lose their shape and shatter easily when dropped. So, it is very important that you keep your dentures moist by soaking them in water overnight or when they are not in use. This will ensure that they remain pliable and retain their shape.

Handle Your Dentures With Care – As mentioned earlier, one of the most common causes of denture fracture is accidental dropping. This makes proper and careful handling very crucial. Whenever you are handling your dentures outside of your mouth, make sure to place a blanket or a towel on your table or counter surface to provide a soft cushion in case you accidentally drop the appliance.

Dentures can also deform or fracture if you handle them too roughly. So, always make sure to use a mirror when putting your dentures in your mouth. This way, you can see clearly and ensure that you are pushing them into the correct position. Never rush or try to force your dentures in place. Also, avoid bending or placing objects on top of your dentures.

Do Not Place Them in Hot Water – Hot water can cause dentures to warp and lose their shape. This can impact the way they fit in your mouth and possibly lead to a break or fracture. If your dentures are not in use, place them in cold water or store them in a proper case where they are not in contact with direct sunlight or other heat sources.

Make Use of Denture Adhesives – This can come in quite handy for new wearers who are worried that their dentures might easily fall off and fracture. Using a recommended denture adhesive ensures that your dentures stay in position. It also reduces the risk of them falling out and breaking.

Address Denture Cracks as Quickly as Possible – Make it a habit to inspect your dentures regularly for cracks and chips. This way, you can get repairs immediately and prevent the cracks from getting worse. Remember that what starts as a hairline crack can very quickly turn into a fractured and broken appliance.

Also, if you notice any issues with your dentures, do not keep wearing them but consult your denturist immediately.

Repair Options for Fractured Dentures

A fractured denture is a very serious issue that should be addressed as soon as possible. Never attempt to fix denture fractures yourself, as you will most likely make the damage worse. The best thing you can do is to take the fractured denture to your dentist or hire the services of a mobile denture repair company. A dental professional will have the right knowledge and tools to carry out the necessary repairs while also ensuring that your dentures continue to fit perfectly.

Conclusion

Dentures are highly durable appliances, but accidents happen, and they can get damaged. A fractured denture base is a very common type of denture damage, and above is what you should know about its prevention, causes and repair.