Dentures are a lifeline for many people, restoring the ability to eat, speak, and smile with ease. So when they break, it’s not just a minor inconvenience—it can throw your whole day off track. Whether they’ve cracked in half or just don’t fit right anymore, broken dentures can disrupt your routine and cause discomfort. That’s why many dentists consider it a dental emergency and recommend seeking help as soon as possible.
Why Broken Dentures Are a Big Deal
Dentures are custom-crafted to fit your mouth snugly and comfortably. When they’re broken, even slightly, they can cause pain, affect your bite, or rub against your gums, leading to sores and irritation. You might find it difficult or even impossible to chew food, which can interfere with your nutrition and daily routine. And if they slip out of place while talking, it can lead to awkward moments in social settings.
In short, even though dentures aren’t “real” teeth, a break or crack can absolutely count as a dental emergency.
Can Broken Dentures Be Repaired?
In most cases, the answer is yes. Depending on the type of damage, broken dentures can be repaired. In some cases, a dentist can fix the issue in-office the same day. For minor issues like a small crack or a loose tooth on the denture base, your dentist may be able to quickly restore it without replacing the entire appliance.
However, more significant damage—such as a completely snapped denture or one that no longer fits due to wear or changes in your mouth—might require more extensive repairs or even a replacement. Avoid trying to fix the denture yourself with glue or over-the-counter repair kits. These quick fixes can cause more harm than good and may make professional repairs more difficult.
What to Do When Your Denture Breaks
If your denture breaks, the first step is to stop wearing it. Continuing to wear damaged dentures can cause mouth injuries or worsen the damage. Next, contact your dentist immediately for an emergency appointment. Be sure to bring all the pieces of the denture with you to your visit. The dental team will assess the damage and determine whether the denture can be repaired or if you’ll need a replacement.
In the meantime, eat soft foods and avoid anything that requires a lot of chewing. It might be uncomfortable to go without your dentures for a short time, but it’s better than risking injury or further damage.
Bottom line? Dentures, like natural teeth, deserve care, maintenance, and may require the occasional emergency dental visit. Broken and damaged dentures are cause to make an appointment as soon as possible.
About the Practice
If you’ve broken your dentures, don’t wait to get help. At Unique Dental of Putnam, we understand how urgent this situation can be. We offer emergency dental services and same-day denture repairs when possible, so you can get back to your routine with minimal disruption.
Whether you need help with broken dentures, missing teeth, or routine dental care, our skilled team is here to help you smile with confidence.
Call us at (860) 928-4352 or request an appointment online.