Where Families in Green Lake Come to Smile
Denture Repairs Seattle, WA
You’ve dropped your dentures on the bathroom floor. Or maybe you bit into something harder than expected and heard that dreaded crack. Perhaps your dog decided they looked like the world’s most expensive chew toy. Whatever the reason, a broken denture can flip your day upside down faster than you can say “soft foods only.”
At Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand that damaged dentures need immediate attention. Dr. Cherryl Ellison provides prompt denture repair services that restore your smile quickly, often completing simple repairs the same day. Her commitment to accessible, quality restorative dentistry means you won’t spend days hiding your smile or struggling with soft foods while waiting for help.
Common Denture Problems Seattle Patients Face
Dentures are incredibly durable, but they’re not indestructible. Over time, everyday wear and the occasional accident can cause damage that requires professional attention.
Cracks and Fractures
The acrylic base of your denture can develop hairline cracks or break completely in half. This often happens when they are dropped onto hard surfaces, such as tile floors or sink tops. Sometimes, normal wear over several years weakens the material, making it more prone to breaking.
Lost or Broken Teeth
Individual teeth attached to the denture base can chip, crack, or fall out completely. This may occur from biting hard foods, accidental impact, or weakening of the adhesive bond over time. Even one missing tooth can affect how your dentures fit and function.
Poor Fit
Your dentures may become loose or uncomfortable as your gums and jawbone naturally change shape. This isn’t technically damage, but it creates problems that need to be addressed. Dentures that don’t fit properly can slip while you talk or eat, cause sore spots, or make clicking sounds.
Worn or Damaged Clasps
If you wear partial dentures, the metal clasps that attach to your natural teeth can bend, break, or lose tension. This makes it difficult for the partial to stay securely in place.
What Happens During a Denture Repair Appointment
The repair process depends on what’s wrong with your dentures. Dr. Ellison examines the damage to determine the best approach.
For minor cracks or breaks, the denture pieces can be bonded back together using specialized dental acrylic. This creates a strong hold that restores function. Replacing a missing tooth involves attaching a new tooth to the denture base with the same type of acrylic material, color-matched to blend with your existing teeth.
Adjustments for fit issues may involve adding material to the tissue side of the denture or carefully removing small amounts to eliminate pressure points. The goal is restoring comfort while maintaining proper function.
Some repairs can be completed while you wait. Others may require sending your dentures to a dental lab for more complex work, which typically takes a few days. Dr. Ellison discusses the timeline with you based on your specific situation.
The result? A smooth, functional restoration that feels like nothing ever happened.
When to Repair vs. Replace Your Dentures
Not every denture problem warrants a full replacement. Repairs work well for isolated issues like single cracks, one or two missing teeth, or minor fit adjustments on dentures that are otherwise in good condition.
However, replacement becomes the better option when dentures show extensive damage, multiple cracks, or significant wear throughout. According to the American Dental Association, dentures typically need replacement every five to seven years as your mouth’s shape changes over time.
If your dentures have been repaired multiple times already, replacement may provide better value than continuing to patch problems. Dr. Ellison evaluates your dentures honestly and recommends the most cost-effective solution for your situation.
Taking Care of Your Dentures Between Visits
Proper daily care extends the life of your dentures and reduces the need for repairs. Handle them carefully, always over a folded towel or bowl of water in case you drop them. The cushion prevents the kind of impact that causes cracks.
Clean your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner, never regular toothpaste, which is too abrasive. Remove and rinse them after eating when possible. At night, soak them in water or denture solution to keep the material from drying out and warping.
Store dentures safely when not wearing them. Keep them in their case, away from pets and children who might mistake them for toys. Visit your dentist regularly for checkups. These appointments catch minor problems before they become bigger issues requiring more extensive repairs.
Schedule Your Denture Repair at Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Ellison brings comprehensive training and experience to every denture repair. She stays current with the latest techniques through active membership in the American Dental Association, Washington State Dental Association, and Seattle Study Clubs. We offer same-day appointments for dental emergencies, including urgent denture repairs. Dr. Ellison handles most calls personally, making it easy to get quick answers about your situation.
At Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry, we accept most dental insurance plans and offer a membership plan for uninsured patients. Cherry financing provides flexible payment options that make dental care accessible when you need it. If you’re searching for denture repairs in the North Seattle area, including Wallingford, Phinney Ridge, or Fremont, our location on Aurora Avenue makes it convenient for patients throughout the region. Contact us today to schedule your denture repair appointment with Dr. Ellison.
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Don’t wait for a small issue to become a big problem. Whether you’re due for a checkup or already know something needs attention, we’re here to help—with no pressure and no surprises.