Can I Repair or Reline My Own Dentures?
Your Denturist has likely given you expert advice on how to properly care for and maintain your new dentures. However, we understand that accidents can happen and your dentures may be damaged in their lifetime.
Your mouth will also change over time which means your dentures will need to be relined to fit comfortably.
At The Denture & Implant Centre, many of our patients ask “can I repair or reline my dentures at home?”
The short answer is no.
Although it may be tempting to seal a crack or super glue a tooth back in, these DIY repairs can end up causing more damage, discomfort, and pain. Home repairs often lead to a costly professional repair down the road.
Dentures can be expensive — especially for patients with limited budgets or seniors on a fixed income. The last thing we want to see is further complications caused by an improper, but well-intentioned repair.
My Dentures Are Cracked / Missing Teeth / Scratched / Warped, What Do I Do?
1. Remain Calm
Although a broken denture may seem like an emergency, it’s important to remain calm. Many repairs are straightforward for our denture technicians — however, you’ll need to visit our offices so they can determine the extent of the damage.
2. Gather Any Missing Pieces or Broken Components
If at all possible, try to pick up any pieces that break off from the denture and keep them somewhere safe. Giving your denturists all of the missing or broken components can significantly reduce the cost and time required to repair your dentures.
3. Contact Your Denturist
The first step you should take in the event your dentures are damaged is to contact your Denturist. We understand many of our patients depend on their dentures on a daily basis and will do everything in our power to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Many minor repairs and relines can be done over the course of a single appointment. Your Denturist will advise you on the extent of the damage and the best course of action at your appointment.
4. Minimize Your Denture Use In The Meantime
Take extra steps to be gentle with your dentures in the time leading up to your appointment. If your dentures are severely damaged, it’s best to minimize your usage to prevent further damage, pain, or discomfort.
Stick to softer foods like soup, smoothies, puddings, oatmeal, mashed veggies, and yogurt. Avoid sticky, chewy, and hard foods like candies, steak, raw veggies, and nuts.
Don’t Fix Your Dentures At Home
Truth be told — there are several articles and youtube videos that advocate for DIY denture repair. However, repairing your dentures at home carries several major risks that could negatively affect your oral health and bank account down the road.
Your dentures are custom-made by professional technicians with many years of combined experience. They’re a tool you use daily to live a healthy and comfortable lifestyle — put your trust in the experts at The Denture & Implant Centre.
Are your dentures in need of a repair or reline? Schedule an appointment today and get them fixed by a professional.
