Dealing with a broken denture can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. While dentures are built to be strong, they can sometimes break for various reasons. It could be from dropping them, grinding your teeth, or from biting down too hard on something. However, if your dentures do get damaged, it doesn’t mean they can’t be fixed. You can get denture repairs.
You don’t have to be too hard on yourself; accidents happen. It’s important to remember that while dentures are created to last, they can still be susceptible to harm, especially the teeth. Here, we share some of the most common culprits behind dentures breaking:
1. Accidental Drops
Accidental drops are one of the most common causes of denture damage.
When dentures are dropped, the plastic and metal materials can fracture and become deformed. Even a short drop from a countertop or table can cause damage. Fractured or broken dentures can be uncomfortable and significantly affect the wearer’s ability to chew and speak. In some cases, the damage may also be irreparable, and a new set of dentures may be required.
To reduce the risk of accidental drops, denture wearers should always be mindful of their dentures when handling them. Dentures should be stored in a clean, safe place when they are not in use.
2. Improper Fit
One of the causes of denture damage is an improper fit. The fit of your dentures should be comfortable and secure. Dentures can cause discomfort and even pain when they don’t fit correctly. An improper fit can also lead to damage, as the dentures may put too much pressure on specific areas of your mouth. This can cause the dentures to wear down and eventually break.
3. Over-Cleaning
When cleaning dentures, the key is to be gentle and not use too much force. Over-cleaning dentures can damage them, as the abrasive materials used to scrub them can wear away at the delicate porcelain or acrylic material. This can cause them to become thin and brittle, making them more prone to cracking or breaking. You should also be aware of the cleaning products used. Harsh chemicals and abrasives can cause irreversible damage to dentures, so it is important to read labels and choose products specially designed for cleaning dentures.
4. Eating Hard Foods
Another common cause of denture damage is eating hard foods. Eating hard or crunchy foods like chips or nuts can cause your dentures to become cracked, chipped, broken, or even dislodged. This is because dentures are not as strong as natural teeth and can be damaged by harder foods.
To avoid denture damage from hard foods, it is important to cut hard foods into small pieces before eating them. This will make them easier to chew and reduce the risk of denture damage. Additionally, it is important to chew on both sides of your mouth, as this will help distribute the pressure of chewing and reduce the risk of denture damage.
5. Poor Maintenance
Poor maintenance of dentures can lead to cracking, chipping, discoloration, and even warping of the dentures. The best way to maintain dentures is to brush and soak them daily to remove any plaque or food particles attached to them. It is also essential to store dentures in a safe place, such as in a denture case, when they are not worn. This will help prevent them from getting damaged or broken.
Conclusion
By understanding the causes of denture breakage, you can take the necessary steps to ensure that your dentures last as long as possible. If you experience a break, it’s vital to seek professional help to ensure that you get reliable denture repair services.
Galleria Dental Smiles offers quality dental care in the Hendon and Northern VA area. We also provide other services like denture repairs. Get in touch with us to schedule your appointment!