Whether it's a sudden fall or an accidental bite on a hard food item, dentures can crack or break, causing not just discomfort but also affecting your ability to speak or eat properly. Here are some quick steps you should take and emergency dental care options if you find yourself facing this common problem.
1. Don't Panic And Assess the Damage
Your first instinct might be to panic when your dentures crack or break. However, it's important to remain calm and assess the damage. Try to locate all broken pieces and carefully examine the extent of the damage. Remember, a small crack might be manageable temporarily, but a complete break will require immediate professional attention.
2. Rinse And Clean
Once you've assessed the damage, rinse your broken dentures under warm water to clean them. Make sure you do this over a basin filled with water or a soft towel to prevent further damage if you accidentally drop them. This step not only maintains hygiene but also removes any sharp edges that might harm your mouth.
3. Use Denture Repair Kits (If Suitable)
If the damage is minor, like a small crack, you might use a denture repair kit for a temporary fix. These kits are readily available at most pharmacies and contain safe-to-use adhesives. However, they are not a permanent solution. You'll need to visit your dentist for professional repair or replacement of the dentures.
4. Seek Emergency Dental Treatment
If the damage to your dentures is severe, or if you're uncomfortable attempting a temporary repair, it's time to seek emergency dental care. Your dentist will assess the situation and determine whether the dentures can be repaired or need to be replaced. This is crucial as ill-fitting or broken dentures can lead to mouth sores, infections and other oral health issues.
Emergency Dental Treatment Options
If your dentures are beyond repair, your dentist may recommend a replacement. There are different types of dentures available, including:
Partial dentures: If you still have some natural teeth, your dentist might suggest partial dentures. These are designed to fit around your existing teeth, filling in the gaps created by missing teeth.
Complete dentures: If all your teeth are missing or need to be removed, complete dentures are the way to go. They are custom-designed to fit your mouth and closely match your natural teeth.
Implant-supported dentures: These are innovative solutions providing better stability. They are anchored to dental implants surgically placed in your jawbone, offering a more secure fit compared to conventional dentures.
Remember, the quicker you seek professional help, the better the outcome. While it may be tempting to glue your dentures back together or to ignore a minor crack, these actions can lead to more severe problems down the line. Always consult your dentist for any denture-related and emergency dental care issues.
For more info about emergency dental treatment, contact a local company.
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