Broken or cracked denture: what to do right away
A broken denture needs prompt professional repair—don't wear it or attempt DIY fixes. Learn what to do immediately and how to manage while waiting.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jose, DDS — August 13, 2026
Call 911 or go to the ER for these signs
Some dental problems are medical emergencies. Get emergency care right away if you have:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of the face, jaw, floor of the mouth, or neck — especially if it is spreading
- Swelling that affects your eye or makes it hard to open your mouth
- A high fever combined with mouth or facial swelling
- Bleeding that won't stop after 10–15 minutes of firm pressure
- A knocked-out adult tooth, or an injury to the jaw, head, or face
When in doubt, consider it an emergency and seek care now.
Stop wearing the denture immediately
A broken or cracked denture should not go back in your mouth. Sharp edges can cut your gums, tongue, and cheeks. If the break has changed how the denture fits, forcing it in place can damage your jawbone structure and make your bite worse over time. Set it aside safely and avoid wearing it until it’s professionally repaired.
Do not attempt a home repair
It’s tempting to use super-glue, epoxy, or other household adhesives to patch a denture quickly. Don’t. These products are not designed for the mouth and can release toxins if they come loose or dissolve. They also make professional repair much harder or even impossible—a dental technician may have to start over from scratch, costing more time and resources.
The same applies to denture adhesive, duct tape, or any DIY method. A qualified dentist or denturist has the proper materials and equipment to fix your denture safely and durably.
Collect all the pieces
If your denture broke into multiple pieces, keep them all in a clean, dry container. Bring every piece with you when you see your dentist or denturist. Even small fragments help the technician understand exactly where the break occurred and how to restore the denture to its original fit.
Call your dentist or denturist right away
Contact your dentist’s office or denturist as soon as possible—today if you can. Many practices prioritize denture repairs because patients need them to eat and speak normally. Ask if they offer same-day or next-day service. If your regular dentist is unavailable, other dental offices in your area may be able to help urgently.
When you call, explain what happened so they can estimate how long the repair will take and whether you need a temporary solution.
Eat soft foods while you wait
Without your denture, chewing may be difficult or uncomfortable. Stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods: yogurt, soup, oatmeal, mashed vegetables, soft fruit, eggs, and fish. Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or very hot foods that require a lot of chewing or that might irritate your mouth. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
If you have natural teeth, you can rely on them for chewing. If you don’t, eating soft foods will protect your gums and jaw while you’re without your denture.
Watch for signs that need urgent care
Get urgent dental care if you notice:
- Severe pain or swelling in your mouth or face
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Signs of infection (fever, pus, or a foul taste)
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop with gentle pressure
- Cuts or sores in your mouth that are very painful
These symptoms may mean the break has caused an injury or infection that needs immediate attention.
Prevent future breaks
Once your denture is repaired, handle it with care. Always clean it over a towel or sink filled with water so it doesn’t break if you accidentally drop it. Store it in a proper denture cup with water or a denture-soaking solution when you’re not wearing it. Avoid extreme temperature changes (very hot or very cold water) and never use harsh abrasive cleaners. For tips on daily denture care and what to do if yours doesn’t fit well, see our guide on dentures and fit.
How MediMouth helps
If you’re unsure which dentist or denturist near you can repair your denture quickly, MediMouth can help you find a network provider who offers same-day or urgent denture services. We also connect you with dentists who can answer questions about denture care and replacement options if repair isn’t possible. Use our search tool to find a practice near you.
Frequently asked questions
Can I super-glue my denture back together temporarily?
No. Household adhesives are not safe for use inside your mouth. They can release harmful chemicals, make the denture harder for a professional to repair, and may cause injury to your gums or soft tissues. Always wait for professional repair.
Is it okay to wear my denture even though it's cracked?
No. A cracked or broken denture can have sharp edges that injure your gums and mouth. Forcing a denture that no longer fits properly can also worsen the damage and harm your bite. Stop wearing it and call your dentist or denturist.
How long does denture repair usually take?
Many dental offices can repair or replace dentures the same day or within 24–48 hours. Call your dentist or denturist right away to ask about their timeline and whether they can see you urgently.