Denture Repairs
Charleston, West Virginia
At Revive Dental and Implant Center, we want all of our patients to maintain proper oral health and a beautiful smile. For those missing all or most of their teeth, this usually involves designing, fabricating, and placing a removable denture. As with most dental restorations, dentures occasionally require repairs, relines, and eventually replacement.
Common Problems With Dentures
The longer a denture is worn, the more likely it will need a repair, oftentimes due to regular wear-and-tear. However, the most common problems with dentures usually occur if your appliance no longer fits properly. Many of these problems may prevent you from properly chewing, speaking, and even smiling.
We usually recommend a repair if there a fracture or micro-fracture that may result in further complications. Without a repair, these fractures will eventually cause a large break in the appliance, either with the acrylic base or prosthetic teeth. Dropping your denture can also cause a break that needs immediate attention.
Common Repairs for Dentures
The most common repairs for dentures include:
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Denture Reline: A reshape of the base that is in contact with the gum tissue, providing a more secure fit.
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Denture Rebase: A complete overhaul of your denture base. Rebasing is usually required due to a very uncomfortable fit or damage that makes your appliance unwearable.
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Denture Adjustment: An adjustment is typically required if you experience sore spots at a specific section of your acrylic base that constantly rubs against your soft tissues. Adjustments are a relatively quick and easy way to alleviate discomfort. |
Luckily, dentures are made from a material known as acrylic resin, which makes most repairs relatively easy. Acrylic is comfortable, durable, natural-looking, and easy to add to an existing base. It can also be used to bond together a break or fracture in your appliance.
It is important to note: most dentures need a total replacement every seven years or so. Because our underlying bone and soft tissues shrink and change shape, a completely new denture ensures a proper, more comfortable, and more effective fit. In the meantime, repairs and relines help you get the most out of your appliance. Learn more about dentures on our Denture FAQ page.
Caring for Your Dentures
Once you receive your restoration, Dr. Chad Boustany will give you a set of detailed care instructions. Implementing the proper denture care is crucial to your oral health and the longevity of your appliance. The general guidelines for new denture users include:
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Practice Caution: Be sure to handle your dentures with exceptional care. When cleaning them, we suggest standing over a full sink of water or folded towel in case the denture slips out of your hands.
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Use a Denture Cleaner: While there are cleansers specifically for dentures, hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid also works in a pinch. Most importantly, be sure to avoid using toothpaste. Many kinds of toothpaste contain abrasives, which are great for cleaning teeth but can easily scratch your new appliance. Ultrasonic cleaners that use high-frequency vibrations to dislodge food debris, bacteria, and other deposits are also effective for denture cleaning.
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Proper Daily Oral Hygiene: To avoid unnecessary problems, brush and rinse your dentures daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush, be sure to avoid toothpaste. Regular brushing prevents permanent stains and discolorations, bacteria growth, and plaque and tartar buildup.
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Keep Your Denture Moist: When your denture is out of your mouth, be sure to keep it moist. Place your appliance in a denture cleanser or water overnight. If your denture dries out, it can easily warp or become brittle. |
Schedule a Consultation Today!
Find out if your dentures need to be repaired, replaced, or relined! Call (304) 467-4265 to schedule a consultation appointment today!
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