Denture Repair: When to See a Dentist for Help
Dentures are an important part of many people’s lives, and when they break, it can be a major inconvenience. While it’s always best to see a professional for major denture repairs, there are some simple fixes you can do at home to extend the life of your dentures.
Fixing a Crack
If your denture has a small crack, you can try to repair it at home using denture adhesive. First, clean the cracked area with warm water and soap. Then, apply a small amount of adhesive to the crack and spread it evenly with a cotton swab. Let the adhesive dry for about five minutes before putting your denture back in place.
Replacing a Broken Tooth
If one of the teeth on your denture breaks, you can replace it using super glue. First, find a replacement tooth that is the same size and shape as the one that broke. If you can’t find an exact match, choose one that is slightly smaller. Next, clean the broken tooth and the socket on your denture with warm water and soap. Then, apply super glue to the socket and insert the replacement tooth. Hold the tooth in place for about 30 seconds to give the glue time to set.
Filling in Gaps
If your denture doesn’t fit as snugly as it used to, you may need to add more adhesive or get it professionally relined. However, if you’re just looking for a temporary fix, you can try filling in the gaps with denture cream. First, wet your denture with warm water and then apply a thin layer of cream around the edges. Press your denture into place and let it sit for about five minutes before removing it and rinsing off any excess cream.
Conclusion: Although it’s always best to see a professional for major repairs, there are some simple fixes you can do at home to extend the life of your prosthetics. With a little bit of know-how, you can fix cracks, replace broken teeth, and fill in gaps yourself—no dentist required!