Does a Broken Denture Count as a Dental Emergency?

Even though dentures aren’t your natural teeth, they still act as such. Without them, it is difficult to eat, speak, and function as you usually do. This is why broken dentures absolutely count as a dental emergency and should be delt with as soon as you can. One of the most serious complications you can encounter with full dentures is a prosthesis fracture. Your dentist shares more about the causes of broken dentures in Harris County and what you should do if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation.

Causes of Broken Dentures

There are numerous different ways that dentures can break. Here are some of the most common causes of denture breakage:

• Natural Wear and Tear: No dental restorations last forever, and dentures are no different. Even though they are highly durable, if you’ve had them for many years, they will eventually start to deteriorate and need to be repaired or replaced.
• Improper Use: Certain precautionary measures should be taken in order to make them last. If you are using them for things they aren’t meant to be used for or pushing their limits, it is possible for them to break.
• Accidents: You never know when an accident is going to happen. Dentures can become damaged by a fall or injury.
• Ill-Fit: This doesn’t always mean that your dentures are broken, but ill-fitting dentures still need to be delt with to prevent discomfort and other issues. This can happen as a result of bone loss or poor dental work.

What to Do with a Broken Denture

If you have a broken denture, the best thing that you can do is contact your dentist and make an emergency appointment. They will do their best to get you into the office as soon as possible so your issue can be dealt with. Even though you can find dental repair kits, it isn’t recommended that you use them. It is necessary to have proper knowledge and materials in order to properly repair a denture. You could accidently cause further damage.

Broken Denture Options

Your dentist will determine what the best solution is according to the amount of damage that your denture has sustained. Here are some common solutions:

• Reline: If your dentures have not been fitting properly, your dentist could recommend that they be relined. This simple reshapes the underside of a denture in order to make it more comfortable to wear and fit better.
• Replacement: When a denture is old and worn, dentists often recommend that you have a new one made that will fit you better and more comfortably.
• Dental Implants: If your dentist determines that you are a good candidate, they may recommend that you opt for dental implant-retained dentures. This will offer greater stability and helps to prevent bone loss.

If your denture is broken, don’t wait! Call your emergency dentist in Harris County so you can come up with a solution together!

About the Practice

At Hamilton Family Dentistry, you have two skilled dentists that provide several different tooth replacement options including dentures. Dr. Alan Arrington earned his dental degree from the Medical College of Georgia and member of the American Dental Association and Georgia Dental Association. For more information on dentures or to schedule an emergency appointment, visit their website or call (706) 801-4089.