If you drop your dentures or use them to bite overly hard foods, they can end up breaking. While this is obviously a problem, it may not feel like a particularly urgent issue on the surface. The truth is, though, that broken dentures are considered a dental emergency. Here’s a closer look at why you should schedule an appointment with your dentist right away if your dental prosthesis is damaged.
Why is a Broken Denture a Dental Emergency?
Trying to wear a damaged denture can cause serious problems for your mouth. For one thing, the broken prosthesis may have jagged edges that can cut or irritate soft oral tissues. On top of that, it will no longer distribute the forces of biting and chewing properly; this can cause painful sores to appear on your gums. Finally, broken dentures often do not fit correctly. Consequently, they can make it harder to chew your food thoroughly, leading to digestive issues.
In short, a broken denture should not be worn. However, this leaves you without a full set of teeth, which can significantly limit the kinds of foods you are able to eat and hinder your ability to speak clearly. Thus, it’s essential to see a dentist as soon as you can so that they can resolve the issue.
What Should You Do If Your Denture Breaks?
Once you realize that your denture is broken, you should reach out to your dentist’s office. A helpful team member will make the necessary arrangements for you to come in for an emergency appointment as quickly as possible.
While you are waiting for your appointment, you should keep your denture in a safe place so that it doesn’t suffer from any further damage. Do not try to repair the denture yourself; this could end up making the problem even worse.
When you see your dentist, they will take a closer look at your denture to determine what steps should be taken next. Sometimes broken dentures can be repaired as long as the damage is relatively minor. However, a severely broken denture will have to be replaced.
Remember, even if you take excellent care of your dentures, there’s still a chance that they could break at some point. But if you act quickly to have the issue addressed, you’ll be able to reclaim a complete, functional smile.
About the Author
Dr. Danny Hayes has more than two decades of dental experience. He went to the Temple University School of Dentistry in Philadelphia, and he has completed advanced training in a wide range of dental topics. At Advanced Dental Concepts in Portage, he offers a comprehensive menu of dental services, from fully personalized dentures to same-day emergency visits. If there is a problem with your dentures, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Hayes by visiting his website or calling (219) 763-6878.