In the dental practice, denture repairs are a routine service that many patients require over time. However, while it’s easy to simply accept a denture brought in for repair and send it off to the lab, taking the extra step of scheduling a denture repair consultation can lead to better outcomes for both the patient and the practice. In this blog, we will explore why denture repair consultations are so crucial for dentists, clinical dental technicians (CDTs), and practice owners. By investing time in these consultations, you can improve your patient care, avoid recurring issues, and ultimately provide better-fitting dentures that last longer.
The Importance of Assessing Denture Repairs
When patients bring in their dentures for repair, the first instinct might be to fix the immediate issue and hand the denture back. However, many times, a denture is breaking because it was made with lower-quality materials or is too old to remain functional. Simply repairing it without addressing the root cause can lead to repeated repairs or, worse, cause further damage to the patient’s oral health.
By scheduling a denture repair consultation, dentists have the opportunity to assess the denture thoroughly, determine why it failed, and offer the best solution for the patient. This proactive approach prevents the denture from failing again, saving the patient from repeated repairs and improving their overall experience.
As highlighted by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (2024), the longevity of oral appliances like dentures is significantly influenced by factors like material quality and wear. Assessing these factors during a consultation helps prevent further damage and ensures that the patient is receiving the most appropriate solution for their oral health needs.
Identifying the Root Cause of the Problem
When evaluating a denture for repair, the first step is to determine why it broke in the first place. Often, dentures fail because of:
- Age and Wear: Over time, dentures can become brittle and prone to cracks, especially if they are made with low-quality materials.
- Improper Fit: A denture that doesn’t fit well can lead to excessive stress on certain areas, causing fractures or damage.
- Accidental Drops: While less common, some patients drop their dentures, which can cause them to break, especially if they are made from fragile acrylic.
- Poor Design or Materials: Low-grade acrylic or poorly placed teeth can contribute to frequent fractures, as seen in many NHS dentures.
In many cases, patients may not realise that their denture was designed poorly or that it’s reached the end of its functional life. Without a consultation, a simple repair might seem like the easy option, but it will not address the underlying issue. As a dentist, your role is to help educate the patient on their options, including the potential need for a new denture that will better serve them in the long run.
Strengthening Dentures During Repairs
One of the most important steps in denture repair consultations is discussing the option of adding strengtheners. Denture repairs often require the inclusion of metal bars or other reinforcements to ensure that the denture doesn’t fail again. Many labs use mesh strengtheners, but in some cases, they are not the best choice. For dentures that are at risk of fracturing, bar strengtheners provide a more robust solution, offering better stability and longevity.
As a general rule, always ensure that the strengtheners are placed in the correct location. This is a crucial aspect of denture repair and requires careful planning. Strengtheners should run perpendicular to the fracture points, and placing them incorrectly can create new weaknesses in the denture. For example, a bar strengthener placed across the entire denture might provide some reinforcement, but it could also increase the likelihood of a fracture across the front of the denture. Instead, strengtheners should be placed strategically, such as at the rear of the denture or along the midline, to avoid this issue.
Offering a Better Alternative to Temporary Fixes
During the repair consultation, it’s essential to discuss the long-term solution for the patient. If the denture is old, poorly made, or no longer fits properly, repairing it may only delay the inevitable. For patients with broken dentures that are not worth saving, offering a new denture as an alternative can prevent recurring problems and improve the patient’s quality of life.
While repairing a denture may seem like the more affordable option for the patient, it can cost them more in the long run if the denture continues to break and requires frequent repairs. By discussing a new denture with the patient, you are helping them avoid ongoing costs and inconvenience.
Communication is Key
Effective communication with patients during denture repair consultations is key to ensuring they understand the importance of their decision. Some patients may be upset about needing a new denture, especially if they were hoping for a simple repair. It’s crucial to explain why a new denture is often a better investment and how it will improve their comfort, functionality, and overall dental health.
Using visual aids such as demonstration models or showing before-and-after examples can also be an effective way to demonstrate the benefits of a new denture. These visual tools help patients understand the quality differences between old and new dentures, reinforcing your professional recommendations.
Conclusion
Denture repair consultations are essential for providing the best care for your patients. By scheduling a consultation, assessing the denture’s condition, and discussing repair versus replacement options, you can ensure that your patients are getting the highest quality care. Additionally, strengthening the denture with the correct materials and providing clear communication will help build trust with your patients and prevent future issues. Investing in these consultations not only enhances your practice’s reputation but also ensures patient satisfaction and long-term success.
As a dentist, clinical dental technician, or practice owner, incorporating denture repair consultations into your workflow will lead to better outcomes for your patients and your practice. It’s time to go beyond quick fixes and provide solutions that stand the test of time.
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