Denture Repairs: When Are They Needed and How Can an Accurate Result Be Ensured?
Removable dentures are designed for daily use, but over time they may require repair or adjustment. A fracture, crack or change in stability does not always mean that a new denture must be made—an existing denture can often be successfully restored.
However, it is essential that the information provided for the repair and the handling of the denture are correct from the outset.
When Is It Time to Have a Denture Repaired?
If a denture becomes cracked or fractured, it should never be glued at home or continue to be worn. Home repairs often alter the position of the denture components and may make professional repair more difficult or even impossible.
The same applies if a denture becomes loose or loses its stability in the mouth. Do not attempt to adjust the denture or bend its clasps yourself, as this may further compromise its fit. The clasps may also break when adjusted without professional assistance.
If heavy plaque or other deposits have accumulated on the denture and it requires thorough cleaning, it is advisable to consult a dentist. The dentist can determine whether cleaning alone is sufficient or whether the denture also requires a structural assessment and possible repair.
Correct Preparation Before Sending the Denture to the Dental Laboratory
The quality of a denture repair largely depends on the condition in which the case reaches the laboratory. Before dispatch, the denture must be thoroughly cleaned of food debris, denture adhesive and other deposits. This is important both for the accuracy of the work and for the proper handling of the materials.
If an impression is taken with the denture, make sure that the denture has not shifted or become distorted within the impression. It is also important to ensure that there is enough impression material to capture all the necessary anatomical areas.
Check that the fractured components of the denture fit together precisely, as this considerably simplifies the restoration process in the laboratory. Even a minor inaccuracy at this stage may affect the final result and extend the turnaround time.
What Information Should the Dentist Include With a Denture Repair?
To achieve an accurate result, the dental laboratory must receive all the necessary clinical information. If teeth need to be added to the denture, it is advisable to include an opposing-arch impression and, where necessary, a bite registration. The tooth shade must also be specified so that the new tooth blends aesthetically with the existing denture.
The more complex the situation, the more important it is to provide clear and unambiguous information. This helps reduce the need for remakes and ensures a smoother workflow between the clinic and the dental laboratory.
What Types of Denture Repairs Are Available?
The type of repair carried out by the dental laboratory depends on the nature and extent of the damage. Common procedures include repairing cracks and fractures, adding teeth or clasps, restoring or relining the denture base, and replacing worn teeth. Repairs may also include thorough cleaning of the denture and restoration of its functional condition.
Each case is assessed individually to determine the most appropriate and durable solution.
Summary
Denture repair is often a quick and effective way to restore the patient’s comfort and chewing function without having to make a new denture. A successful outcome, however, largely depends on how the case is prepared at the clinic and the condition in which it reaches the laboratory.
A properly handled and well-documented denture allows for an accurate, aesthetic and durable repair that can continue to serve the patient for many years.
