When you or a family member has a knocked-out tooth or severe tooth pain, it’s quite clear that it’s considered to be a dental emergency and warrants a call to a dentist. However, what do you do when you have a broken denture? At first glance, it may not seem like a big deal. However, the opposite couldn’t be truer. To learn what you should do next and what you should avoid, keep reading!
First Steps to Take When a Denture Breaks
The first thing you should do the moment you notice your denture is broken is get in touch with the dentist you received it from. You should be able to get an appointment scheduled either the same day, or at the very least, the next day. It’s not recommended that you purchase a “denture repair kit” as these products can actually cause you to damage your denture even more, making it unrepairable.
Until your appointment, use a backup denture if you have one. Just don’t let it become your permanent denture. If you do not have a backup denture, stick to a very soft diet and avoid foods that require a lot of chewing, as they can damage your gums and lead to digestive issues if you try to consume them without teeth.
Your Options Once You Get to a Dentist
Once you arrive, the dentist will closely examine your denture and determine if it can be repaired. If a tooth is missing or it’s too uncomfortable to wear, they may be able to repair it in the office if the damage is not too severe.
Alternatively, the denture may need to be sent to the dental lab it was created in or replaced. If the denture is completely cracked in half, it will need to be replaced entirely. Your dentist should be able to provide you with a temporary denture in the meantime.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Future Broken Dentures
A denture can break for a variety of reasons, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to prevent breaks from occurring. For example, it’s recommended that you:
- Clean it every day using dedicated denture cleanser
- Avoid placing it in hot water (which can cause it to warp and change shape)
- Remove it at night when not in use
- Keep it in room temperature water to prevent it from drying out
- Place a towel in the sink when cleaning them to provide a cushion in case of accidental drops
A broken denture is just as much a dental emergency as tooth pain or a dental infection, so don’t put off calling a dentist today if you notice your denture is cracked or does not fit as well as it should!
About Tylan Creek Family Dentistry
The dentists at Tylan Creek Family Dentistry are fully dedicated to seeing you as soon as possible if you have a broken denture. Not only will they do everything they can to repair your denture, but they’ll provide you with specific options to replace it if needed, ensuring it meets your exact specifications and fits comfortably for years to come. To schedule an appointment, you can contact them through their website.