Should you repair or replace a broken denture?
A broken denture does not always mean a new one. Most breaks can be repaired the same day for a fraction of the cost. Here is how to tell what yours needs.
When a repair makes sense
A repair keeps the denture you know: the same fit, the same look and the same bite. It is done with the same acrylic the denture is made from, and costs far less than a new one.
- It snapped or cracked after a drop
- A tooth chipped or came off
- You have lost a natural tooth and want one added to your partial
- It fitted well before it broke
Why some dentures keep breaking
If the same denture breaks again and again, there is usually a reason. The most common is a loose fit: as your gums change shape over the years, the denture rocks and one spot takes all the force. A reline reshapes the fitting side so it sits firmly again, which often stops the breaks.
Wear is another reason. Teeth that are worn flat make you bite harder, and older acrylic can become brittle.
Signs it may be time for a new one
If your denture is very worn, keeps breaking after a reline, or your mouth has changed a lot, a new denture may serve you better. That is a conversation for your dentist.
Bring yours in and we will tell you honestly what we see before we start anything. If we think a repair is not the best use of your money, we will say so.