Patients with removable dentures often do not know when a denture repair is necessary. These patients may not realize the value of repairing a denture and may consider the defect or damage minor. However, keeping a denture in pristine condition is not only beneficial to the patient's oral health but can also increase patient satisfaction with denture retention and longevity. Minor damages can turn into larger problems that are more difficult to fix, and keeping this appliance in good condition is important for aesthetic and functional reasons for many patients.
Patients who wear dentures may not see the need to visit a dentist regularly. However, early detection of denture damage is essential for some repairs to be possible instead of having to remake the entire denture. Any change in the fit of the denture or integrity of the materials should be addressed immediately by the patient's dentist. The patient should also discuss ways to prevent damage to a denture. This can include instructions on how to clean the denture properly and how to store it at night.
A missing or broken tooth on a denture can be unsightly and also affect a patient's chewing function. The tooth can often be restored with an acrylic replacement that matches the shape and color of the adjacent teeth. It is important that the patient have this repair done as soon as possible so that the denture material around the missing tooth will not start to crack or break.
An acrylic denture base can crack if enough force is applied or if the denture is dropped. While a crack may seem insignificant at first, it can soon spread and cause the entire denture to break. Some cracks can be sealed to prevent further splitting, while others may require more extensive repair. If the crack becomes severe enough, a new denture may be recommended.
Some patients report that dentures do not fit as well after a year or more. In these cases, the type of denture repair that may be recommended is a soft or hard reline. More acrylic is added to the denture base to replace acrylic that may have been worn down by chewing and speaking. The patient's bone can resorb over time as well, making a denture fit more loosely. In these cases, a reline can help adapt the denture to the patient's changing gums.
Dentures can be a valuable restorative option for many patients, but it is important that they know when a denture repair is necessary and how to properly care for a denture. The patient should still see a dentist on a regular basis to ensure that their mouth remains healthy and that the denture is meeting the restorative needs. For those unsure about the need for a denture repair, a consultation with a dentist is recommended. In some instances, early detection of damage or other problems can save time and resources for the patient.
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