What Happens If You Break a Dental Bridge or Denture?

A broken dental bridge or denture can be a stressful and inconvenient experience. Whether it happens due to an accident, biting into something hard, or normal wear and tear, a damaged dental restoration can affect your ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently. But what should you do if your dental bridge or denture breaks?

This guide will walk you through the steps to take after a break, how to prevent further damage, and when to seek professional care at Smyrna Dental Studio.

Common Causes of Broken Bridges and Dentures

Understanding why dental bridges or dentures break can help you take preventative measures in the future. Some of the most common causes include:

• Accidental Drops – Dentures can break if dropped on a hard surface.

• Wear and Tear – Over time, bridges and dentures weaken due to repeated chewing and everyday use.

• Biting on Hard Foods – Crunchy foods, ice, or hard candies can exert excessive force, leading to fractures.

• Poor Fit – Ill-fitting restorations can be unstable, increasing the likelihood of breakage.

• Changes in Jaw Structure – Bone loss or gum recession can alter the way your bridge or denture fits, making it more susceptible to damage.

• Underlying Oral Health Issues – Tooth decay, gum disease, or infections can weaken supporting structures, causing breakage.

What to Do If You Break a Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is designed to replace missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent healthy teeth or implants. If your dental bridge breaks, follow these steps:

1. Assess the Damage

• Is the entire bridge loose or just a small crack?

• Are the supporting teeth damaged?

• Does the bridge feel unstable?

If the bridge is completely detached or causing discomfort, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.

2. Avoid DIY Fixes

While it might be tempting to use super glue or a temporary adhesive, these substances are not safe for oral use and can cause further damage. Never attempt to reattach a broken bridge at home.

3. Keep the Bridge Clean and Intact

If the bridge is loose but still in place, maintain good oral hygiene by rinsing with warm salt water and brushing gently.

4. Contact Your Dentist Immediately

Call Smyrna Dental Studio for an emergency dental evaluation. Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may:

• Re-cement the bridge if the underlying structure is still intact.

• Repair minor cracks with bonding material.

• Replace the bridge if it's severely damaged.

What to Do If You Break a Denture

Dentures are essential for chewing, speaking, and maintaining facial structure. A broken denture can be a major inconvenience, but there are steps you can take:

1. Remove the Denture and Inspect the Damage

• Is the denture cracked, fractured, or completely broken in half?

• Are the clasps on partial dentures bent or damaged?

• Are the artificial teeth loose or missing?

2. Avoid Using Damaged Dentures

Wearing broken dentures can cause gum irritation, sores, or misalignment. Store them safely until you see your dentist.

3. Do Not Attempt Home Repairs

Using household glue or over-the-counter repair kits can create long-term issues and introduce harmful chemicals into your mouth.

4. Schedule an Emergency Repair

At Smyrna Dental Studio, we offer same-day denture repair and adjustments to restore function and comfort as quickly as possible.

How a Dentist Fixes a Broken Dental Bridge or Denture

Repairing a Dental Bridge

Depending on the severity of the break, your dentist may:

• Re-cement a loose bridge if the supporting teeth are healthy.

• Replace damaged crowns or supporting teeth to provide a stronger foundation.

• Craft a new bridge if the existing one is beyond repair.

If you need a new bridge, Smyrna Dental Studio offers custom restorations designed for durability and aesthetics.

Repairing a Denture

For a damaged denture, your dentist may:

• Use acrylic or resin bonding to fix minor cracks.

• Replace missing or damaged artificial teeth.

• Rebase or reline the denture for a better fit.

• Create a new denture if the damage is too extensive.

Preventing Future Damage to Your Dental Bridge or Denture

To extend the life of your dental restoration, follow these care tips:

• Handle With Care – Always remove dentures over a soft surface to prevent accidental drops.

• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods – Chewing ice, hard candy, or sticky foods can increase the risk of breakage.

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene – Keep the surrounding teeth and gums healthy to ensure a strong foundation for bridges.

• Schedule Regular Checkups – Visit your dentist for routine exams and adjustments to ensure your bridge or denture remains in good condition.

• Use a Nightguard (If Necessary) – If you grind your teeth, a custom nightguard can protect your bridge from excessive pressure.

• Store Dentures Properly – When not in use, keep dentures in a protective case with water or denture solution to prevent drying out or warping.

For expert care and long-lasting dental restorations, schedule an appointment with Smyrna Dental Studio today.

Conclusion

A broken dental bridge or denture can be frustrating, but knowing what steps to take can prevent further complications. Avoid DIY repairs, keep the restoration safe, and seek professional dental care immediately.

At Smyrna Dental Studio, we specialize in emergency bridge and denture repairs to restore your smile quickly and effectively. Contact us today for expert solutions and long-term oral health care.