Denture Repairs 101: How Broken Dentures Get Fixed (Step-by-Step)

  • Home
  • /
  • Blog
  • /
  • Denture Repairs 101: How Broken Dentures Get Fixed (Step-by-Step)
Denture Repairs 101: How Broken Dentures Get Fixed (Step-by-Step)

A broken denture can feel like an emergency, which can affect your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Whether it is a hairline fracture, a chipped tooth, or a complete snap in the base, knowing where to turn for help is essential.

Visiting a professional denture clinic in Calgary ensures that your appliance is handled by experts who understand the structural integrity of dental acrylics.

While it may be tempting to reach for a DIY kit, professional restoration is the only way to ensure the fit remains comfortable and the repair stays permanent.

What Should You Do The Moment A Denture Breaks?

If your denture breaks, the first thing to do is collect all the pieces, no matter how small they seem.

Do not attempt to glue the pieces back together yourself, as many household glues are toxic and can permanently damage the acrylic, making a professional fix impossible.

If you are seeking denture repairs in Calgary, most clinics offer emergency services to get you back to your routine quickly.

Keep the broken pieces in a safe container and avoid wearing the damaged appliance, as sharp edges can cause significant irritation or cuts to your gum tissue.

How Does A Professional Technician Repair Dentures?

Many patients are curious about how dentures are repaired once they are handed over to the lab. The process usually begins with a “re-indexing,” where the technician aligns the broken pieces and creates a stone cast to hold them in the exact position of your mouth.

The edges of the break are then ground down to create space for fresh, high-quality acrylic resin. This new material is cured under heat and pressure, essentially bonding the pieces back into a single, solid unit.

Finally, the denture is polished to a high shine to ensure it feels smooth against your cheeks and tongue.

How Long Do Denture Repairs Take For The Most Common Issues?

One of the most frequent questions patients ask is how long denture repairs take when they are in a rush. For simple cracks or a single tooth replacement, many clinics can provide “same-day” service, often completing the work in just a few hours.

However, if the denture has snapped completely in half or requires a “rebase” (replacing the entire pink acrylic area), it may take a full business day.

The goal is to provide a swift turnaround without compromising the strength of the bond, ensuring you don’t have to go without your teeth for long.

What Determines The Denture Repair Cost Factors?

When it comes to the financial side of the process, several denture repair cost factors come into play. The most significant variable is the type of break; a simple chip is much more affordable to fix than a structural fracture that requires metal reinforcement.

The age of the denture also matters; if the acrylic has become brittle over time, a repair might be more complex.

Additionally, the need for new materials, such as replacing a high-end porcelain tooth versus a standard acrylic one, will influence the final price. Most clinics will provide a clear estimate after a quick visual inspection.

Comparison of Repair Types

Type of Damage Complexity Estimated Lab Time
Chipped Tooth Low 1–2 Hours
Hairline Crack Medium 2–3 Hours
Full Fracture High 4–6 Hours
Rebase/Relining Very High 24 Hours

Restoring Your Smile and Function

While dealing with a broken appliance might feel stressful, seeking expert care can help you resolve the problem faster.

By choosing professional restoration, you can achieve an oral health that feels protected, and your smile remains as natural as ever. Restoring your confidence is just a quick visit away.

At North East Denture Clinic, we prioritize your comfort and provide efficient, high-quality solutions for all your dental appliance needs. Our team is dedicated to getting you back to your normal life with minimal downtime.

If you have a damaged denture or need a routine checkup, contact us today to see how we can help.

FAQs

Can I use superglue to fix my dentures at home?

No, superglue is not waterproof and contains chemicals that can irritate your mouth and ruin the denture acrylic beyond repair.

Will my repaired denture feel the same as it did before?

A professional repair is designed to restore the exact fit and alignment, so it should feel just as comfortable as it was before the break.

What causes dentures to break most often?

Most breaks occur from accidental drops in the sink or because the denture has become loose over time, causing uneven pressure during chewing.

Should I get a new denture instead of a repair?

If your denture is more than 5 to 7 years old or breaks frequently, your denturist may suggest a replacement for better long-term value.