When Denture Repair Doesn’t Help: Knowing When to Replace Dentures

For those who wear artificial teeth, a denture repair is a form of routine maintenance that should be expected throughout the life of the dental appliance. Both simple adjustments and complex corrections can help improve fit and function as well as longevity. While some of the most frequently occurring problems can be fixed by repairing the dentures, there are situations that require replacing them instead.

When denture replacement may be necessary

According to the ADA, dentures should be consistently evaluated for replacement after five years of use, assuming other issues do not arise first. Some problems may warrant immediate replacement because repairs would not be an effective option.

Severe degrading of the device

With proper care, dentures should remain durable, clean, and pleasant looking. These precautions include:

• Soaking in a denture-cleaning solution when not in use
• Cleaning only with tools designed for denture use
• Careful handling to avoid damage
• Using only recommended amounts of adhesive
• Regular dental checkups
• Immediate assessment and denture repair when damage occurs

If patients ignore some of the essentials of proper denture care, the devices can deteriorate at a faster rate. This may cause them to warp, crack, or break altogether. It can also lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria, resulting in staining, erosion, and even chronic inflammation and potential disease in the patient.

Recurrent poor fit

In many situations, a simple denture repair is all that is needed to improve poor fit. If a patient experiences sores or pain, minor modifications can make all the difference to ensure a more comfortable and secure placement. However, if multiple adjustments do not produce the desired results, it may be time to replace the prosthesis entirely. Even if dentures feel comfortable but still require multiple adhesive applications to stay in place, a dentist may need to assess the need for replacement.

Changes in the patient

Over time, a patient's teeth, gums, and bone structure will gradually change. This will affect the fit, stability, and overall appearance of dentures. This becomes especially true for individuals with partials, which are crafted to fit alongside existing teeth. If the fit does remain secure, dentures that once looked appropriate may later appear unnatural as the patient ages. 

When denture repair is the appropriate choice

Even with careful handling and upkeep, dentures are likely to experience some type of damage over time. When a tooth, clasp, or base is broken, it can usually be repaired by a dental professional. If the denture base begins to wear out, relining can help restore the device for improved function and fit. It is important to note that all denture repair should be handled by a dentist since at-home repair can make the situation worse and may even prove dangerous for the patient.

Conclusion

In some situations, denture repair is all that is necessary to address damage or issues with everyday wear. However, serious damage, chronic problems, or changes in the patient could point to the need for replacement instead. An experienced dentist can help guide patients towards the appropriate treatment choice based on symptoms and need.

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