Is a Broken Denture a Dental Emergency?

Dental emergencies can happen with no warning. You might attribute dental emergencies to chipped or knocked-out teeth, but they can take many forms. Believe it or not, a broken denture is a dental emergency because you can’t go without teeth. If you’ve broken a denture, don’t panic! Here’s what you need to do to have them repaired.

Common Causes of Broken Dentures

Dentures are made of durable materials and can last for many years with the correct care, but they are indestructible. Various things can cause a denture to break, like:

• Accidents: Dropping your denture on a countertop, a curious toddler, or a playful puppy can lead to denture damage.
• Improper Fit: Tooth loss causes your jawbone to shrink over time, which can cause your denture to fit improperly. If it is not relined regularly you can experience pressure points on your denture, which can cause fractures and damage over time.
• Wear and Tear: With your dentures serving as your teeth, they will experience a lot of wear and tear over time.

What to Do for a Broken Denture

If you have a broken denture, do not continue to wear it. It can cause oral injuries or worsen the damage, making it unrepairable. If possible, wear an old denture in the meantime and contact an emergency dentist. 

It is best to leave the mending for professionals. Do not use over-the-counter adhesives, glues, or cements. They can contain toxic ingredients and do not hold up well in moist environments, like your mouth. You can also cause more damage by trying to fix it yourself.

Repair or Replacement?

Your emergency dentist will examine your denture to determine if it can be repaired or if you’ll need a replacement. Minor issues may be fixable, but if your denture breaks in half or significant damage occurs, you’ll probably need a replacement. If your denture is older than 5 years, it is probably time for a new one.

Your dentist will use the latest technologies and materials to create dentures that look and feel natural. They’ll restore your beautiful smile, so you won’t have to go with no teeth.

About Dr. Sowmya Kumar

Dr. Kumar is a graduate of the University of Florida College of Dentistry and she continues her education regularly to provide the latest solutions in dentistry, including tooth replacement options. She strives to help each patient achieve their best smile using personalized solutions. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (321) 617-5901.