Partial dentures are a common fixture in the lives of many people who have lost a few teeth. While partial dentures are typically made to last for several years, they are not indestructible. Often, they crack or break, either due to an accident or wear and tear. Although it’s best to consult a dentist for significant repairs, minor cracks or chips in partial dentures can be fixed at home. In this article, we’ll show you how to repair your partial dentures with simple steps and tools.
What are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are dental prostheses that replace one or more missing teeth. Partial dentures are generally made of acrylic resin or metal and are attached to the remaining teeth with clasps or precision attachments. Dentists use partial dentures to preserve the remaining teeth and prevent them from shifting forward. Depending on the missing teeth’ location, partial dentures can be designed to fit in either the upper or lower jaw.
Tools You’ll Need
To repair your partial dentures, you will need the following tools:
- Small bowl or cup for soaking the dentures
- Soft-bristled toothbrush
- Emery board or sandpaper
- Dental adhesive (available over the counter in drugstores)
- Partial denture repair kit (available over the counter in drugstores or online)
Steps to Repair Your Partial Dentures at Home
Follow these simple steps to repair your partial dentures at home:
Step 1: Remove the Partial Denture from Your Mouth
The first step in repairing your partial denture is to remove it from your mouth. Clean it thoroughly with a mild denture cleaner, warm water, and a soft-bristled toothbrush. If the partial denture has a metal framework, be sure to use a nonabrasive cleaner to avoid scratching the metal.
Step 2: Soak the Partial Denture in Warm Water
Soak the partial denture in warm water for a few minutes to soften any dried adhesive. Remove the denture from the water and place it on a clean, dry towel.
Step 3: Check for the Crack or Damage
With a dry toothbrush, gently clean the surface of the partial denture, checking for any cracks or chips in the acrylic or metal. Sometimes, a crack may not be visible to the eye, but you can locate it by running your fingers over the surface to feel for cracks.
Step 4: Sand the Cracked Area
If there is a small crack or chip in the acrylic or metal, use an emery board or sandpaper to sand the area around the damage. Sanding the area makes it easier for the adhesive to stick and hold the broken pieces together. Be careful not to sand too hard and accidentally remove more of the acrylic or metal.
Step 5: Apply Dental Adhesive
Apply the dental adhesive to the affected area using the brush that comes with the adhesive. Use only a small amount of adhesive to avoid a lumpy or uneven finish. Press the broken pieces of the partial denture together and hold them in place for a few minutes to allow the adhesive to bond.
Step 6: Reinsert the Partial Denture
Once the adhesive has dried and set, reinsert the partial denture into your mouth. Check to ensure that it fits comfortably and securely, and that it doesn’t cause any pain or discomfort.
When to Visit a Dentist
While you can make minor repairs to your partial denture at home, it’s best to visit a dentist for significant damage or issues. Visit a dentist if:
- The partial denture has a significant crack or break
- The partial denture is loose or ill-fitting
- The partial denture is causing pain or discomfort
Semantic Keywords
Here are some semantic keywords related to partial denture repair:
- Partial denture
- Acrylic resin
- Metal
- Dental adhesive
- Dentist
- Crack
- Chips
- Repair kit
- Mouth
- Fitting
In conclusion, partial dentures play a vital role in protecting remaining teeth and providing a full set of natural-looking teeth. Although minor repairs can be made at home, it’s essential to visit a dentist if the damage is extensive. With these simple steps and tools, you can keep your partial dentures in good condition and avoid costly repairs in the future.