Dentures serve as functional replacements for missing teeth, restoring both appearance and the ability to chew. While modern materials are robust, these prosthetic devices are not indestructible. Understanding the limits of denture strength helps users appreciate the necessity of proper handling and care, which is important for maintaining the device’s integrity and function over time.
Assessing Denture Strength and Materials
Most conventional dentures are primarily fabricated from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), a type of acrylic resin. This material is selected because it is biocompatible, lightweight, and can be easily molded to fit the contours of the mouth. Acrylic performs well under the compressive forces generated during chewing, which is its primary function in the mouth.
However, acrylic resin exhibits a relative weakness when subjected to sudden impact or bending forces, which is known as tensile or flexural stress. Dropping the appliance onto a hard surface often generates this type of rapid, concentrated force, leading to common fracture patterns.
Some prosthetic designs incorporate a metal framework, often made of chrome cobalt alloy, particularly in partial dentures. This underlying structure significantly enhances the overall structural integrity of the appliance. The metal framework helps to distribute forces more evenly across the denture base, which substantially reduces the probability of a catastrophic break from impact or fatigue.
Common Scenarios That Cause Breakage
The most frequent cause of denture breakage occurs outside the mouth, typically when the device is being cleaned or handled. An accidental drop onto a bathroom counter or tiled floor is the single leading scenario resulting in fracture. This sudden mechanical shock exceeds the material’s flexural strength, causing the base or a tooth to crack or separate.
Breakage can also be initiated by forces experienced during normal function, such as chewing particularly hard or sticky food items. While designed for chewing, repeatedly stressing the same localized area over time can introduce microscopic cracks, known as stress risers, into the acrylic. These tiny defects slowly propagate under constant load, eventually leading to a complete fracture.
A poorly fitting denture represents a significant internal risk factor for eventual structural failure. When the fit is compromised, the chewing forces are no longer distributed evenly across the supporting soft tissues and bone ridge. Instead, the pressure becomes concentrated onto small, localized areas of the denture base, creating chronic stress points.
This constant, localized strain weakens the acrylic at the stress point, making the denture highly susceptible to breaking even during routine use or minor drops.
Routine Care and Handling to Ensure Longevity
Preventing damage begins with establishing careful daily handling routines to mitigate the risk of accidental breakage. Whenever removing or inserting the appliance, it should always be handled directly over a soft, cushioned surface. Placing a folded towel on the counter or filling the sink basin with water creates a buffer that can absorb the shock if the denture slips from the hand.
Proper cleaning techniques are also instrumental in preserving the structural integrity of the material. Cleaning should be done using a specialized denture brush with soft bristles and a non-abrasive cleanser, such as mild soap or a denture cleaning tablet. Harsh household chemicals or stiff-bristled toothbrushes can scratch the acrylic surface, creating potential weak points.
When the dentures are not being worn, they require correct storage to prevent the acrylic from drying out, which can lead to warping or shrinkage over time. Storing them in water or a dentist-recommended soaking solution maintains the material’s intended physical properties. Allowing the acrylic to dry repeatedly can introduce internal stresses and reduce the overall resilience of the prosthetic.
Regular professional check-ups allow a dental professional to assess the fit and condition of the appliance. Adjustments can be made to address minor fit issues before they develop into chronic stress points that may eventually lead to material fatigue and unexpected fracture.
Handling Broken Dentures
If a denture does sustain damage, the immediate action is to contact a dental professional without attempting a do-it-yourself fix. Using common household adhesives, such as superglue, is strongly discouraged because these glues often contain toxic chemicals that are not safe for oral use. Improper alignment during a repair attempt can permanently distort the fit.
A dental professional can determine whether the damage requires a repair or a complete replacement of the appliance. Minor issues, like a small crack in the base or a single detached tooth, can frequently be repaired quickly by a dental lab. These repairs often involve bonding the pieces back together using specialized acrylic resins that restore the original strength.
However, major fractures, especially those involving multiple pieces or significant warping of the base, usually necessitate a complete replacement. In these complex cases, new impressions of the mouth are required to fabricate a completely new and accurate prosthetic device.