You usually think of a dental emergency as a knocked-out tooth or serious toothache, but what about broken dentures? They aren’t your real teeth, but without them you struggle to eat, speak, and function how you normally would on a given day. The truth is that a broken denture definitely falls within the category of a dental emergency and should be dealt with as soon as you can so that you can have the issue resolved. Continue reading to learn about the most common causes of broken dentures, what to do if it happens to you, and some possible solutions.
How Do Dentures Break?
Dentures can become damaged in all sorts of different ways. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Accidents: Your denture can become damaged due to an injury or fall.
- Wear-and-Tear: As durable as modern dentures are, they aren’t meant to last forever. If you’ve had them for many years, they will eventually need to be repaired or replaced.
- Improper Use: If you aren’t taking the proper precautionary measures to keep your dentures in optimal shape, they could break. Don’t use them for things they aren’t meant to be used for or push their limits.
- Bone Loss: This doesn’t cause your denture to break, but over time, it can make it fit poorly and cause discomfort and other issues.
What Do I Do If I Have a Broken Denture?
If you have broken a denture, you should contact your dentist right away in order to make an emergency appointment. They will try to get you into the office as soon as possible so you can have the issue resolved. You can find denture repair kits over the counter, but this isn’t generally the best option. You need to have proper knowledge and materials in order to fix a denture correctly. You could even cause further damage by accident. Seeing your dentist is definitely the way to go.
What Are My Options?
Your dentist will be able to offer you the best solution in order to fix your dentures depending on the amount of damage they have sustained. Here are some ways the issue is usually resolved:
- Reline: For patients who have ill-fitting dentures, your dentist may recommend that they be relined. This reshapes the underside of a denture to make it more comfortable to wear.
- Replacement: If your denture is old and worn, your dentist will probably recommend that you have a new one made that works better and fits more comfortably.
- Dental Implants: If your dentist thinks you’d make a good candidate, they may recommend dental implant-retained dentures as a way to offer greater stability, prevent future bone loss, and make your dentures more comfortable.
If you have a broken denture, contact your dentist in order to schedule an emergency appointment. They will help you get back on your feet in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Art Mowery is a well experienced dentist whose career in dentistry spans over two decades. He earned his DMD from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and is a member of several professional organizations including the Florida Dental Association and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. For more information or to schedule an emergency appointment, visit his website or call (352) 332-6725.
