My Dentures Are Cracked: Should I Have Them Repaired or Replaced?

You’ve spent considerable time and money on your dentures and are smiling confidently for the first time in a long time. Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee your dentures won’t become damaged or worn out.

Though it’s frustrating when they snap, crack, or break in half, restoring your dentures is much easier than you might think. Jason Alsbury, LD, at Apex Denture Studio, knows when a simple patch job is best and when to draw the line and replace your dentures completely.

Here’s a closer look at how we make the call.

To repair, or not to repair

The extent of the damage determines whether we can repair your dentures or if they need to be replaced. We can fix most breaks and cracks, but you’ll need a new set if your dentures are old or the damage is so severe that it compromises the structural integrity.

Either way, we never recommend fixing damaged dentures on your own. Doing so can affect how the dentures fit in your mouth, worsen the damage, and lead to more problems later.

Depending on the condition of your dentures, we can offer a denture reline, denture repair, or total replacement.

Denture relines

You might need a denture reline if there’s something wrong with the fit of your dentures. Your dentures might still be in good shape, but they might feel:

Loose
Uneven
Too tight
Uncomfortable
Irritating
Bothersome

You can request multiple denture relines as your gum tissue and bone structures change over time.

Denture repairs

You should get a denture reline every year or so, but denture repairs are for immediate needs whenever they pop up. We offer same- or next-day denture repairs for dentures that are:

Broken
Cracked
Misaligned
Irritating
Not functioning properly
Mildly or moderately damaged

We remove your dentures and examine the location and extent of the damage. Then, we carefully repair cracks and breaks with dental adhesives to ensure a sturdy bond.

Before you leave, we make sure your dentures fit properly and make adjustments if necessary.

Denture replacement

In some cases, your dentures are simply too damaged to repair. But don’t worry. You should replace your dentures every 5-10 years anyway, as years of wear-and-tear can change how your dentures function and fit.

We have the tools and technology to create a new set of perfectly fitting dentures. If it’s been a while since you first got your dentures, we’ll likely need to create new impressions of your teeth to ensure they fit comfortably.

Keeping your dentures in tip-top shape

Regardless of the type of dentures you have, the fundamental things apply. To keep your dentures in the best shape possible, we recommend:

Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine
Brushing your dentures and natural teeth with a soft-bristled brush
Soaking removable dentures overnight in lukewarm water or denture solution
Rinsing your dentures after eating and drinking
Avoiding using harsh chemicals
Not sleeping in your dentures

Always handle your dentures carefully, especially if you have removable ones, and take your time cleaning them.

Concerned about denture damage? Don’t wait another day to have them fixed. Call our friendly staff at 509-204-8305 in Yakima or Richland, Washington, or use our online booking tool to schedule an appointment.