Dec 5, 2025
Broken Dental Bridge or Denture? What to Do
By Dr. Raheel Thobhani, DMD
You rely on your dental bridge or denture every single day. So when it suddenly cracks, snaps, or a tooth pops off, it can feel like a major crisis. Can you fix it at home? Do you need a brand new one? How will you eat dinner tonight?
At Smyrna Dental Studio, we handle these restorative emergencies frequently. We know that a broken prosthetic isn't just an inconvenience; it's a disruption to your life. This guide will walk you through the immediate "dos and don'ts" and explain how we can get your smile back to full strength.
Immediate Steps: What to Do When It Breaks
Whether it's a fixed bridge or a removable denture, your first actions matter.
1. Remove it (If Removable)
If you wear a denture or partial, take it out immediately to prevent swallowing any loose pieces or injuring your gums. If you have a fixed bridge that is loose but still attached, leave it alone; do not pull on it.
2. Save All the Pieces
Gather every fragment you can find. Rinse them gently with water. Store them in a hard container (like a Tupperware) or a Ziploc bag. Bringing these pieces to us is crucial for determining if a repair is possible.
3. Call Smyrna Dental Studio
Contact us right away. Let us know if you are in pain or if the break has left sharp edges that are cutting your mouth. We will prioritize getting you in.
4. Use Dental Wax
If a fixed bridge has a rough edge that you can't remove, cover it with orthodontic wax (available at drugstores) to protect your cheek and tongue.
The Big "Don't": Put Down the Glue!
We cannot stress this enough: DO NOT USE SUPERGLUE.
It is Toxic: Household glues contain chemicals not meant for the mouth.
It Destroys the Fit: Glue adds thickness. Even a tiny layer will ruin the precise fit of your bridge or denture against your gums/teeth.
It Melts Acrylic: Glue can chemically melt the acrylic of a denture, turning a repairable break into irreparable damage.
Repair vs. Replacement: What to Expect
When you come in, Dr. Thobhani will evaluate the damage.
Repairs: If it's a clean break or a popped-off tooth on a denture, we can often repair it in the office or send it to a local lab for a same-day or next-day fix.
Replacement: If the metal framework is bent, the porcelain is shattered, or the supporting natural teeth underneath have decayed, a repair may not be possible. In this case, we will discuss fabricating a new, stronger restoration.
FAQs: Broken Restoration Questions
Can I wear my broken denture until my appointment?
It is highly discouraged. Wearing a broken denture can cause severe sores on your gums, change your bite, and cause the break to worsen until it is unfixable. It is best to leave it out.
Why did my bridge break?
Common causes include:
Age: Materials fatigue over time (10-15 years).
Decay: Cavities on the supporting teeth can cause a bridge to loosen and snap.
Bone Loss: As your jaw shrinks, dentures lose support and can rock, leading to fractures.
Grinding: Heavy biting forces at night.
Is this a good time to switch to implants?
Yes. If your bridge or denture failed due to bone loss or lack of retention, simply making a new one might lead to the same problem later. A break is the perfect opportunity to discuss upgrading to dental implants or implant-supported dentures for a permanent, unbreakable foundation.
How much does a repair cost?
A simple repair is very affordable, often a fraction of the cost of a new unit. However, if a replacement is needed, we will provide a transparent cost estimate and discuss financing options to help you handle the unexpected expense.
We Will Get You Smiling Again Fast
A broken bridge or denture is stressful, but it is a solvable problem. With quick action and professional care, we can often repair your smile or provide you with an even better, long-term solution.
Don't try to DIY your dentistry. Call Smyrna Dental Studio immediately for an emergency repair appointment.
