Broken Denture

What to do if your denture breaks
If your denture breaks, avoid trying to repair it yourself using glue or other household adhesives, as these can damage the denture further and may be harmful. Instead:

• Keep all the broken pieces in a safe container and bring them to your appointment.
• Avoid wearing the damaged denture, as it may irritate your gums or cause further damage.
• Contact us immediately to arrange an emergency denture repair appointment.

Common causes of broken dentures
Dentures are designed to be strong and durable, but they are not indestructible. Breakages can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• Accidental drops when cleaning or handling dentures.
• Chewing hard foods, such as nuts or crusty bread.
• Natural wear and tear from years of daily use.
• Changes in the shape of your mouth or gums, leading to poor fit and stress on the denture.
• Sudden impact, such as a fall or injury.

Whatever the reason, our emergency dental team can assess the situation and advise whether the denture can be repaired or if a replacement is required.

Assessment and first steps at your appointment
At your emergency appointment, the dentist will:

• Examine the denture and your mouth to check for irritation or sore spots.
• Assess the break to determine if a repair is possible.
• Provide advice on repair or replacement, depending on the condition of the denture and how long you have been using it.

If a repair is possible, in many cases we can carry it out quickly so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.

Treatment options for a broken denture
The type of treatment depends on the extent of the break and the overall condition of the denture.

Denture repairs

• Simple repairs – Small cracks or minor fractures can often be repaired during your emergency visit.
• Rebasing or relining – If your denture has become loose due to changes in your gums or jaw, the dentist may recommend relining or rebasing to improve its fit and stability.

Denture replacement

• New denture fitting – If the denture is old or severely damaged, a replacement may be the most effective long-term solution. Modern dentures are designed for improved comfort and a natural appearance.
• Temporary denture solutions – In some cases, a temporary denture may be provided while a permanent replacement is made.

Aftercare for denture repairs
To protect your dentures and reduce the chance of future damage, your dentist will provide guidance, such as:

• Handle dentures carefully and avoid dropping them.
• Clean dentures with a soft brush and denture cleaner, not hot water.
• Remove dentures at night to allow your gums to rest.
• Attend regular dental check-ups to ensure your dentures fit well and remain in good condition.

With the right care, a repaired or new denture should provide many years of reliable use.