2-4-4-Cracks and Fractures

Surfaces of the denture should be rounded, not sharp.  Borders (yellow arrow) should be rounded.

Cracks (white arrow) and fractures (yellow arrow) are commonly found on dentures worn by older adults. Sometimes persons cannot express their discomfort and cracks/fractures go unnoticed.

Denture sharp edges, cracks or rough surfaces like the injuries highlighted by the arrows on the pictures can cause oral health issues.

Report these problems to a dentist.

A chipped tooth on a denture reduces its chewing function and may create sharp edges.

• Worn down teeth (yellow arrow on top picture) decrease chewing function. Discuss the need for replacement with a dentist.
• Front denture teeth changes are noticed more easily (Upper picture). Chipped/fractured denture teeth further back are more difficult to find(lower picture).
• Conducting regular visual inspections is important.

Chipped teeth and fractured/cracked dentures can be easily fixed by a dentist. Sometimes it is better to make new dentures, depending on the extent of the damage. Discuss options with a dentist.