Can Dentures Break While Eating? – What You Need to Know

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Dentures are a life-changing solution for many people, offering a chance to restore a natural-looking smile and enjoy the confidence of comfortable oral function. However, as with any dental appliance, questions about their durability often arise.

One common concern is, “Can dentures break while eating?”

If you're new to dentures or have experienced issues with them in the past, you may be wondering how strong they are when subjected to the rigors of everyday eating. 

In this blog, we will answer that question, explain why dentures can break, and offer helpful tips for preventing damage.

Can Dentures Break While Eating?

Yes, dentures can break while eating, though it's relatively rare. Dentures are designed to withstand regular use, but they are not indestructible. 

The risk of breaking largely depends on several factors, including the type of dentures, what you’re eating, and how well the dentures fit.

Why Can Dentures Break While Eating?

Understanding why dentures might break while eating can help you take preventive measures. 

Here are some common reasons why dentures might break while eating:

Fragility of the Material

Dentures are typically made from acrylic resin, porcelain, or a combination of both. While these materials are designed to be durable, they can become brittle over time or if exposed to extreme pressure. Porcelain, in particular, can crack or chip under stress, especially when biting down on harder foods.

Improper Fit

If your dentures don’t fit properly, the pressure exerted during chewing can cause them to crack or break. A poor fit might result in an uneven distribution of force when chewing, which can lead to fractures in the dentures.

Age of the Dentures

Like any other dental appliance, dentures can wear out over time. Older dentures may lose their strength and become more prone to breaking. This is why it’s essential to have your dentures regularly checked and relined by your dentist.

Chewing Hard or Sticky Foods

Certain foods can put extra strain on your dentures. Hard foods like nuts, ice, or hard candy can potentially crack dentures if you're not careful. Sticky foods, such as caramel or taffy, can also cause damage by tugging at the dentures or making them prone to dislodging and breaking.

Accidental Bites or Impact

Accidents can happen, and if you accidentally bite down on something unexpectedly hard or if your dentures slip while eating, they may crack or break.

What Can Happen if Dentures Break While Eating?

If your dentures break while eating, it can be more than just an inconvenience. 

The following are possible consequences of broken dentures:

  • Discomfort: Broken dentures can cause discomfort or irritation to your gums, leading to sores or pain.
  • Difficulty Eating and Speaking: Without functional dentures, chewing and speaking can become much more challenging.
  • Cosmetic Issues: A broken denture can affect your appearance, making you feel self-conscious about your smile and your overall appearance.
  • Potential for Further Damage: If not addressed quickly, a small crack or chip can worsen, leading to a complete break or making the denture unusable.

How to Prevent Dentures from Breaking While Eating

While dentures are strong, the best way to ensure they remain intact is through regular maintenance, good habits, and caution when eating. 

Here are some ways to prevent your dentures from breaking while eating:

  • Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular appointments with your dentist to ensure that your dentures are in good condition. They can check the fit, look for signs of wear, and make adjustments or replacements as needed.
  • Use Dentures as Intended: Avoid using your dentures for tasks other than eating, such as opening packages or biting into tough objects. Your dentures are designed to handle food, not external pressure.
  • Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods: Be mindful of your diet. Avoid biting into very hard foods like ice, raw vegetables, or candies. Stick to softer foods and cut larger pieces into smaller, more manageable bites. Also, limit sticky foods that may tug at your dentures.
  • Proper Fit and Relining: Over time, your gums and jawbone can change, causing dentures to loosen. A loose fit can increase the risk of breakage. Relining your dentures can help restore a snug fit, reducing the chances of damage while eating.
  • Clean Your Dentures Properly: Make sure to clean your dentures regularly, as plaque and food particles can build up, leading to damage. Use a soft-bristle brush and a denture cleaner recommended by your dentist. 
  • Handle Your Dentures Carefully: Dentures are fragile and should be handled with care. Avoid dropping them or subjecting them to unnecessary force. When not wearing your dentures, store them in a safe, damp container to avoid drying out and cracking.

What to Do If Your Dentures Break While Eating

If your dentures do break while eating, don’t panic. Here’s what you should do:

  • Stop Eating Immediately: If you feel any unusual discomfort or hear a crack, stop eating right away to avoid further damage.
  • Inspect Your Dentures: Examine your dentures for cracks or chips. If the damage is minor, you may be able to use them temporarily until you see your dentist.
  • Contact Your Dentist: Contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment. Do not try to fix the dentures yourself; you could possibly cause further damage.
  • Avoid Using Damaged Dentures: Until your dentures are repaired, avoid using them. Continuing to use broken dentures can lead to further damage or irritation to your gums.

Conclusion

So, can dentures break while eating? Yes, they can.

While dentures are designed to be durable, the simple truth is that they can break while eating, especially if they're subjected to excess pressure or wear over time. However, by following proper care routines, avoiding tough foods, and getting regular checkups, you can significantly reduce the chances of your dentures breaking. 

Remember, maintaining your dentures is an investment in both your comfort and confidence. 

If you're concerned about the condition of your dentures, Springhill Dental Health Center is here to provide the support and solutions you need to keep your smile and your dentures intact for years to come.

Schedule your appointment today by calling (251) 265-7808.

FAQs

Why do my dentures come out when I eat?  

Dentures may come out while eating due to a poor fit, which can cause them to slip or move. This can be addressed by getting your dentures adjusted or relined by a dentist.

Is it common for dentures to break while eating? 

While dentures are designed to be durable, they can break if subjected to excessive pressure or hard foods. Regular care and maintenance can help reduce the risk of damage.

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