A cracked denture requires immediate attention to protect oral health and restore function. Dentures are made from durable acrylic resin, but they are not impervious to damage from accidents or wear. Any damage, even a small crack, compromises the structural integrity of the appliance and can rapidly worsen under the pressure of chewing. A crack affects your ability to speak and eat comfortably, making a prompt, safe repair a priority.
Temporary DIY Fixes for Small Cracks
For a small, non-displacing hairline crack that does not compromise the fit of the denture, a temporary repair using a commercially available kit can provide a short-term solution until a dental professional can be seen. These kits are specifically designed for the acrylic material of dentures and typically contain a bonding adhesive, repair resin, a mixing container, a small spatula, and sometimes sandpaper. The initial step for any temporary fix involves thoroughly cleaning and drying the damaged area to ensure the repair material can properly bond to the denture surface.
The next step requires mixing the powder and liquid components of the repair resin according to the manufacturer’s directions until a smooth, homogenous paste is formed. Using the provided spatula, apply a thin layer of the prepared resin directly into the crack, ensuring the material fully fills the fracture without creating a raised bump. Once the resin is in place, the pieces must be held firmly together and in perfect alignment during the curing time specified in the kit’s instructions.
After the resin has fully set, carefully remove any excess material that may have squeezed out from the crack line using a clean cotton tip or the edge of the spatula. The final step involves using the fine-grit sandpaper included in the kit to gently smooth any rough edges or imperfections on the repaired surface to prevent irritation. This temporary fix is not a permanent solution and is only intended to maintain function for a few days to a week while awaiting professional care.
Recognizing When Professional Repair is Necessary
A small, self-repaired crack must be followed by a professional examination, but certain types of damage mandate immediate dental attention. If the crack extends across the midline of the denture, or if the appliance has fractured into two or more pieces, the structural integrity is compromised beyond a temporary repair’s capability. Similarly, if the crack causes any change in the fit, such as new looseness or the development of sore spots, a professional must intervene.
Continuing to wear a severely cracked or poorly fitting denture creates significant health risks. The sharp edges of a fracture can easily cut or irritate the gum tissue, leading to chronic soreness, inflammation, and potential infection. A misaligned denture also affects the bite, potentially causing joint pain and accelerating bone loss in the jaw, as the pressure of chewing is distributed incorrectly. A dentist or prosthodontist will assess the damage and determine the appropriate long-term solution, which may involve a laboratory repair, a reline, or a complete replacement if the damage is too extensive or the appliance is old.
Materials to Avoid Using
Household adhesives are not safe or suitable for use in the oral environment and should never be used to fix a denture. Products like super glue, which contain cyanoacrylate, are not designed to withstand the constant moisture and temperature fluctuations present in the mouth. The bond created by these household glues is generally weak and water-soluble, meaning it will quickly degrade when exposed to saliva, leading to a rapid failure of the repair.
The chemicals in these adhesives, such as formaldehyde and acetic acid, are toxic and can cause irritation, burns, or allergic reactions to the sensitive tissues of the gums and mouth. Furthermore, using household glue creates a significant problem for dental professionals, as the residue is extremely difficult to remove from the denture’s acrylic surface. This contamination can make a subsequent professional repair impossible, often forcing a costly complete replacement of the appliance.
Proper Denture Maintenance
Minimizing the risk of future cracks relies heavily on consistent, careful denture maintenance and handling practices. Whenever handling your appliance, especially during cleaning, it is a good practice to work over a soft towel or a sink filled with water. This precaution provides a cushion for the acrylic in case of an accidental drop, as the impact on a hard surface is a leading cause of breaks.
The cleaning process itself must be gentle and use the correct materials to protect the denture’s integrity. Dentures should be brushed daily with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner or mild soap, while avoiding regular toothpastes, which contain abrasive particles that can scratch the acrylic surface. When not worn, dentures must be kept moist by soaking them in a denture-cleansing solution or plain water, as allowing them to dry out can cause the acrylic material to become brittle and more susceptible to cracking. Additionally, regular appointments with a dental professional ensure the fit remains accurate, as a denture that no longer fits well can experience uneven pressure distribution, making it more prone to microfractures over time.