Dentures are sturdy prosthodontic appliances that have allowed countless patients to enjoy complete smiles after extensive tooth loss. While these devices are durable enough to last for seven years or more if they receive proper care, they are not invincible and can break if exposed to too much stress. Here’s how to tell if your broken denture requires the immediate attention of an emergency dentist.
Chips in Your False Teeth May Not Be a Big Deal
The pressure of chewing can cause chips and cracks to form in the artificial teeth mounted on your denture, but these issues may not be emergencies depending on their severity. Small cracks and chips can usually wait a few days before being fixed, and your dentist can usually repair them with a small amount of composite resin. However, severely damaged teeth can lead to oral injuries and may need to be replaced. Contact your emergency dentist after your artificial teeth break to describe the problem and receive guidance as to what to do next.
A Poorly Fitting Denture May Require a Reline
While your dentures should fit remarkably well when you first receive them, they may start slipping and sliding about in the mouth due to the way the jaw changes shape over time. This is because dentures do not restore the stimulation that natural teeth give the jawbone during the chewing process, and poorly fitting dentures can cause discomfort as well as dental injuries, soft tissue irritation, oral infections, and bad breath. While poorly fitting dentures can often be relined or adjusted to fit properly, your appliance will eventually need to be replaced.
A Denture Broken in Two Can Be an Oral Health Hazard
If your denture snaps in half, continuing to wear it can lead to oral injuries or damage the device further. As soon as your denture breaks, cease wearing it and contact your emergency dentist to schedule an appointment. Severely damaged dentures such as those that are snapped in half will probably have to be replaced completely.
Denture damage can constitute a dental emergency depending on its severity. Your dentist can address the issue by repairing or replacing your appliance.
About the Practice
Vista Dental Care offers the finest oral health service available in Sparks. Led by Drs. Marc Thomas and Dennez Avendano, the staff ensures that each patient receives outstanding customer service and sincere compassion in a warm and welcoming office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If your denture has been broken, dial (775) 626-3535. For non-urgent inquiries, contact the office online.