Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth, designed to restore function and appearance. These prosthetic devices are fabricated to be durable and withstand the forces of chewing and speaking. However, the materials used are not indestructible, and proper handling is necessary to maintain their structural integrity. Dentures can break if subjected to excessive force or if underlying issues compromise their design.
Factors Influencing Denture Durability
The primary material for the base of most dentures is acrylic resin. This material is selected for its excellent aesthetics and ease of fabrication, but it possesses relatively low impact strength compared to natural teeth. The acrylic is prone to fracture when subjected to sudden, high-energy impacts, often resulting in a complete break.
A subtle factor influencing long-term durability is the fit of the denture against the gum tissues. As the mouth changes over time, bone resorption occurs, causing the denture to loosen and rock slightly during function. This repetitive, uneven movement creates stress points, especially in the midline, leading to material fatigue and the eventual development of fine cracks.
Older dentures are naturally more susceptible to damage due to wear and tear. Constant exposure to temperature changes, chewing forces, and cleaning solutions can weaken the acrylic material over the years. This gradual degradation makes the base brittle and less resilient, increasing the likelihood of a fracture even from minor stressors.
Common Scenarios Leading to Breakage
The most frequent cause of breakage is accidentally dropping the denture onto a hard surface. When a denture slips from the hand during cleaning or removal, the impact force is often enough to crack or completely shatter the acrylic base. Even if a break does not occur immediately, the impact can create micro-fractures that weaken the structure and lead to a break weeks later.
A common scenario involves placing excessive force on the prosthesis while eating. Dentures are designed to handle normal chewing, but biting down on overly hard foods, such as nuts, hard candy, or ice, can stress the structure beyond its design limits. This can result in chipped artificial teeth or the fracture of the base material.
Improper cleaning techniques also contribute to the weakening of the denture material. Using abrasive household cleaners, such as bleach, or scrubbing with a stiff-bristled toothbrush can scratch the acrylic surface. These scratches create surface irregularities where stress can concentrate, making the denture vulnerable to developing a hairline crack that can spread quickly.
Essential Practices for Prevention and Care
Preventing accidental damage begins with mindful handling, especially during the daily cleaning routine. Always remove and clean your dentures over a sink filled with water or a folded towel placed on the counter. This simple precaution provides a cushion if the appliance slips from your grasp, reducing the risk of impact damage.
Proper cleaning involves using only a soft-bristled brush and cleaning agents specifically designed for dentures. Abrasive toothpastes or harsh chemicals can degrade the acrylic, making it porous and susceptible to damage. Dentures should also be kept moist when not in the mouth, typically by soaking in water or a dedicated cleaning solution, to prevent the material from drying out and becoming brittle.
Maintaining a secure fit is equally important for preventing stress fractures during use. Regular dental check-ups allow a professional to assess the fit and stability of the denture. If the fit has become loose, a dentist can perform a reline or rebase procedure to improve stability, removing the uneven pressure that causes internal structural stress.
What to Do If a Denture Breaks
If a denture cracks or breaks, the immediate action is to remove the pieces and contact your dental professional right away. Avoid wearing a damaged denture, as sharp edges can injure the soft tissues of the mouth. Collect all the broken fragments and store them safely to bring to your appointment for assessment.
Never attempt to repair a broken denture at home using household adhesives like superglue. These products are often toxic, not designed for oral use, and will contaminate the acrylic, making a professional repair or reline much more difficult. An improper home repair can ruin the appliance, necessitating a complete and costly replacement.
A dental professional will evaluate the severity of the damage to determine the appropriate course of action. Simple cracks can often be repaired quickly in a dental laboratory, but more extensive breaks may require a reline or the fabrication of a new denture for long-term function and comfort.