The right choice depends on the damage, the fit and how well your dentures were working beforehand. Ask for an assessment of the whole denture, not just the broken part, before choosing a repair or a new set.
Was the denture working well before it broke?
This is a useful place to start. Think back to the weeks before the damage. Were you eating comfortably? Did it stay in place? Were you already thinking about changing it?
Write down what you were happy with as well as what bothered you. If you liked the appearance, say so. If you avoided certain foods or felt embarrassed when speaking, tell the clinician that too.
What should an assessment explain?
A repair and a replacement are different decisions. Ask what the proposed work would change and what it would leave as it is.
- The problem: what has broken or changed?
- The proposal: what work is recommended, and why?
- The limits: which concerns would remain afterwards?
- The next step: what appointments or follow-up would be needed?
If you cannot picture the difference between the options, ask for another explanation. You should not have to make a decision simply because a technical term sounds reassuring.
What if it has been repaired before?
Bring that history to the appointment. Tell the team roughly when each repair happened, whether the same area broke again and whether you noticed a change in comfort afterwards.
Previous repairs do not give you an answer on their own. They give the clinician information to consider. Ask why another repair is being suggested, or why replacement would be a better option in your case.
How do I compare the costs?
Request a personal quote for each suitable option. Ask what is included, how many visits are expected and how follow-up care is arranged.
Compare the proposed outcome as well as the quote. For example: “Will this repair address the concern I came in with, or are we only fixing the break?” Our pricing page explains how to contact us for a quote; we do not publish a starting price.
Can I discuss the options with Matthew?
Yes. Tell Matthew Haines what you need from your dentures and bring your current set. It is fine to arrive with questions rather than a decision.
Request a consultation in Swindon, or contact us about damage if the immediate problem is a break. We will confirm the arrangements before you come in.
Sources and further reading: The Denture Practice: repair or replace. General information; your clinician will advise on your own dentures.