HOW CAN I REPAIR MY DENTURE?
A denture usually lasts between five and ten years, but in that time you might find it needs to be repaired. Whether your dentures have been damaged, or they’ve become loose because of natural changes to the shape of your face and jaw, it’s always best to get in touch with your dentist to discuss denture repair, rather than attempt to fix them yourself.
How dentures are repaired
If your denture does get damaged or starts to feel loose-fitting, try to see your dental professional as soon as you can. Options for denture repair include relining or rebasing:
Relining
Relining involves adjusting your denture base to make sure it fits more comfortably. This is usually done by adding more acrylic but may require fresh impressions.
Rebasing
Denture rebasing requires impressions too, but this is so that a denture base can be re-made from scratch to get the best fit.
Care before Repair
Getting into a good routine when it comes to denture care will help ensure your dentures are kept in great condition. Here are some simple things you can do to maintain the look and fit of your denture:
- Clean them in the morning and evening to keep them looking good and working well.
- Use a soft-bristled brush and a denture cleanser, like Polident, as part of your cleaning routine.
- Take your dentures out at night and store them safely. It’s a great way to give your gums a rest.
- Try cleaning them over a soft towel or a bowl of water. That way, they won’t break if you accidentally drop them.
- Be sure to schedule regular check-ups with your dentist. They can help keep an eye on the condition of your dentures.
- Look and feel for changes in the fit of your dentures. If you notice they’re not as snug as they used to be, consider seeing your dentist.
As always, prevention is better than the cure, and if your dentures are properly cared for, there’s less of a risk they’ll need repairing further down the line. But if you do find that they have become damaged or aren’t fitting as well as they once did, getting the right advice and having them repaired means you can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your dentures are in the best possible condition.
