If you’re missing teeth, dentures can give you the opportunity to eat, talk, and smile in ways that you may not have been able to for a really long time. If you’ve had them for a while, it may even be hard to imagine going through life without them.
So when your dentures break, you might not quite know the best way to handle it. You may even wonder if a set of broken dentures constitutes a dental emergency, requiring immediate attention. If you’re in this situation now, here’s what you should know.
Is a Broken Denture a Dental Emergency?
Dentures can be incredibly impactful, so if yours break it’s fair to say that it absolutely constitutes a dental emergency. Without them, you may not be able to do the basic things that everyone needs, like chewing and talking normally.
Dentists understand this, so if you have a broken denture, they’ll be happy to see you as quickly as possible.
What to Do If Your Dentures Break
If you discover a crack or fracture in your dentures, the first thing you should do is to put them somewhere safe. In some cases, this may be your mouth, but usually you should try to set them aside in a place where they won’t take any more damage.
Then, you should call your dentist for an emergency appointment. They’ll try and get you in as quickly as possible for repairs or replacement. If it’s after hours, you should leave a voicemail with the front office who will reach out to you the next day.
What Can A Dentist Do?
If your dentures need minor repairs, like patching up a tiny fracture or relining to better fit your jaw, your dentist may do this on-site. In more serious cases, your dentist may need to send your denture to a lab for repairs, or have you fitted for a completely new set.
In either case, talking to your dentist will let them return your dentures to you as soon as possible.
About the Author
Dr. TJ Sprague has a passion for dentistry, and prides himself on being able to use the latest technology to give his patients healthy, beautiful smiles! Dr. Sprague received his dental degree from the University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, where he received both the Outstanding Senior Leadership Award and the American Student Dental Association Award of Excellence. Since then, he has made it a point to continue his education as a member of the Academy of General Dentistry.
If you have any questions about dental emergencies, he can be reached at his website or by phone at (918) 250-9528.