The term “dental emergency” can be rather vague. If you damage a natural tooth, that definitely seems urgent. But what about a damaged denture? Will a chip or crack bring the holiday festivities to a halt?
The answer might be a little more complicated than you would think. Keep reading to learn why broken dentures are urgent, but not necessarily an emergency.
How Urgent are Broken Dentures?
When dentures are damaged, a couple of different things could happen, depending on the severity of the break. If you put them back in your mouth, you risk cutting your oral tissue on jagged fragments, or irritating your gums because the denture no longer fits quite right. This can be a serious problem when you rely on your prosthetic for daily oral function!
Basically, it’s best to have your dentures repaired or replaced as soon as possible, even though your oral health isn’t in as much danger as it would be with cavities or gum disease.
What Should I Do About Broken Dentures?
First, you should call your dentist. After describing the state of your dentures, they can let you know whether it’s safe to continue wearing them. Then they’ll help you with any next-step arrangements, including scheduling a timely appointment.
Something you should not do is try to repair your dentures yourself! Home remedies and even denture repair kits can do more harm than good. There are plenty of cases of patients accidentally breaking their dentures further – or gluing their lips together.
How Can I Prevent Broken Dentures?
Sometimes accidents just happen, but there are a few precautions you can take to avoid denture damage. When you remove them, keep them secured in a safe place, such as a case or tucked away in a bathroom cabinet. That way, hyperactive children or curious pets won’t trample them underfoot. It’s also a good idea to lay out a towel over your sink while you clean them; if you drop them, a soft towel can save them from cracking.
Some patients like to keep a set of backup dentures, just in case. This can certainly help prevent holiday stress, but you should still have your original set evaluated by your dentist after the festivities. Backups are typically not as comfortable and might not be a good fit for your gums.
At the end of the day, your dentist is there to help you with your oral concerns and questions. If you find yourself panicking, unsure what to do about a set of broken dentures, give them a call. They’ll be ready to guide you through the situation!
About the Author
Dr. Evan Pedersen earned his dental degree from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. He’s always been an excellent student, and diligently keeps up with the latest research and techniques in the field. If your dentures need repaired or replaced, Dr. Pedersen will provide prompt and quality service. To contact his office, call 512-777-0866.