One way or another, your dentures broke. You panic for about a second, and then remember, “Oh, wait. These aren’t real teeth. It’s probably not a dental emergency.” Maybe you even went back to what you were doing or tucked into bed for a light nap!
It’s true that broken dentures aren’t necessarily as urgent as a broken real tooth. However, they still classify as a dental emergency, and you’re probably going to want them for eating and talking. Keep reading for more details.
Why Are Broken Dentures a Dental Emergency?
Most patients rely on their dentures for everyday activities. Since going without them can significantly impair your quality of life, fixing them is considered an urgent priority. Plus, dentures that are chipped, cracked, or fractured could very well harm your gums. Even if the damage seems minor, putting them back in your mouth risks injury due to jagged fragments. You’ll definitely have a dental emergency on your hands if you cut your mouth!
Should I Call My Dentist Before or After a Snooze?
Before! Maybe you’re not planning on eating dinner anytime soon, but booking and getting to an appointment could take some time. It’s better to start the process promptly.
You should also inform your dentist about your predicament in great detail. Depending on how and where your dentures broke, they could have important instructions for you to follow before your appointment.
Why Did My Dentures Break?
Good question. It’s one thing if an obvious physical impact shattered your dental prosthetic. But what if you didn’t drop them – or drop something on them?
Regular wear and tear is enough to weaken natural teeth, and it’s also enough to weaken your dentures. Sometimes they simply can’t handle another bite. On the one hand, it’s nice to know why problems occur so you can avoid them in the future. On the other hand, it’s also nice to know that denture breakage might not have been your fault!
What Will My Dentist Do for My Dentures?
Even if you approached the situation with all the calm of a cool cucumber, you know you have to eat at some point. Fortunately, your dentist knows this, too. After you describe the damage to your dentures, they’ll tell you what to expect for your specific situation. Generally, though, broken dentures are either adjusted or completely replaced. Minor fixes can usually be completed on a same-day basis. Significant repairs, however, likely mean sending your prosthetic off to a lab and waiting for their return.
If this reality is a little more nerve-wracking for you, don’t worry. Your dentist will walk you through every step of the process and make sure you’re prepared for whatever comes next!
About the Author
Dr. Mark R. Guillory earned his dental doctorate from the Meharry Medical College. He focused his advanced training on dentures and dental implants, which can be seen in his practice’s specialized services. Basically, he’s more than qualified to treat all your denture needs, including adjustments and repairs! To contact Dr. Guillory’s office, call New U Dentures and Implants at 281-592-6398.