Is a Broken Denture a Dental Emergency?

Dentures are one of the most popular tooth replacement options out there. They can be lifechanging, especially for those who have been missing most or all of their teeth. But what happens when your denture breaks? Does this count as a dental emergency? Should you seek help immediately. They may not be your real teeth, but it is certainly difficult to chew and speak without them. Continue reading to learn more from your dentist about how they break and what to do if you have a broken denture.

How Do Dentures Break?

There are a number of ways that your dentures can become damaged. Here are the most common reasons why dentists come into the office with broken false teeth:

• Accident: Dentures can break as the result of an injury or fall.

• Wear and Tear: Even though modern dentures are more durable than ever before, they do become worn over time. If you’ve had your dentures for many years, you will eventually need to have them repaired or replaced.

• Bone Loss: This doesn’t cause your dentures to break, but it can cause them to fit poorly and be difficult to deal with.

• Improper Use: If you’re using your false teeth for things other than chewing food, like opening packaging, biting your nails, or munching down on ice, you could end up damaging them. Remember to be careful with your dentures so you can keep them in optimal shape.

What Should I Do If I Break My Denture?

If you have a broken denture, you should contact your dentist as soon as you can. Even though this isn’t a life-threatening situation, you still want to make an urgent appointment so you can get it fixed as soon as possible. They will try to get you into the office so you can have the problem resolved. You can find denture repair kits over the counter, but this isn’t usually a good idea when it comes to fixing your restoration. You need to have proper knowledge in order to fix a denture or else you could cause even more damage.

What Are My Options?

Your dentist will determine what the best solution is depending on the damage that your denture has endured:

• Reline: If you have ill-fitting dentures, your dentist may suggest that you get them relined. They will reshape the underside of the denture to make it fit more comfortably.

• Replacement: When your denture is old and worn, or the damage cannot be easily repaired, your dentist will recommend that you have a new one made that works better and fits more comfortably.

• Dental Implant: If your dentist thinks you’d make a good candidate, they may recommend that you get dental implant-retained dentures instead. They offer greater stability, prevent future bone loss, and are more comfortable.

If you have a broken denture, contact your dentist as soon as you can so you can get it fixed or replaced. You will have your functional smile back in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Charles R. Fana is an experienced dentist who has been serving patients at Compass Dental for two decades. He earned his DMD from the University of Louisville and has completed the entire curriculum at the prestigious L.D. Pankey Institute. He is also a member of numerous professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. For more information about dentures or to schedule an appointment at his office in Savannah, visit his website or call (912) 352-3955.