Emergency Denture Repairs: What to Do When Your Denture Breaks

Emergency Denture Repairs: What to Do When Your Denture Breaks

A broken denture can happen at the most inconvenient times. Whether it cracks during a meal, a tooth pops out, or the entire plate snaps in two, knowing what to do — and what not to do — can make the difference between a simple repair and a costly replacement.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Collect All the Pieces

If your denture breaks, gather all the pieces carefully. Even small fragments can be important for a successful repair. Place them in a clean container or a sealed plastic bag. Do not throw any pieces away.

Step 2: Do Not Attempt DIY Repairs

This is the most important advice we can give. Resist the temptation to fix your denture yourself with superglue, epoxy, or any household adhesive. These products are not designed for oral use and can:

• Create toxic fumes in your mouth
• Damage the denture material beyond repair
• Make professional repair impossible or much more expensive
• Cause the pieces to be misaligned, affecting your bite

Step 3: Remove the Denture If It Is Uncomfortable

If the broken denture is causing discomfort, sharp edges are poking your gums, or it no longer fits securely, remove it. It is better to go without your denture temporarily than to risk injury or further damage.

Step 4: Contact Us Immediately

Call Rangiora Denture Clinic on 03 313 9192 as soon as possible. Because we have an on-site laboratory, we can often provide same-day repairs for common breaks. The sooner we receive your denture, the sooner we can fix it.

What We Can Repair

Our on-site laboratory handles a wide range of denture repairs:

• Clean breaks — The denture has split into two or more pieces
• Cracked acrylic — Hairline or visible cracks in the denture base
• Broken or missing teeth — Individual teeth that have broken off
• Loose or bent clasps — Metal attachments on partial dentures
• Worn or damaged surfaces — General wear that has affected function

Prevention Tips

While accidents happen, you can reduce the risk of breakage:

• Always clean your dentures over a soft surface or towel
• Never use hot water, which can warp the acrylic
• Store them safely when not wearing them
• Avoid biting down on very hard foods
• Keep up with regular check-ups to catch weak spots early

If your denture has broken or is showing signs of wear, contact us for prompt, professional repair.