If you’ve broken a denture, you might be wondering whether it’s truly urgent. After all, it’s not like a tooth got knocked out—right?
While dentures aren’t natural teeth, they still play a critical role in your ability to eat, speak, and go about daily life confidently. So yes, a broken denture does count as a dental emergency, and you should seek help right away.
Why Broken Dentures Are an Emergency
Dentures are more than a cosmetic solution. They help you chew properly, pronounce words clearly, and maintain the shape of your face. When your denture is cracked, chipped, or completely broken, it disrupts your routine and can even lead to injury or further oral health issues.
Without proper fit and structure, broken dentures can:
- Cause sore spots or irritation in the mouth
- Lead to jaw pain and bite misalignment
- Prevent you from eating a balanced diet
- Affect your self-esteem and social interactions
If your dentures break, don’t wait days or weeks to get help. Acting quickly prevents complications and ensures you can get back to smiling, speaking, and eating comfortably.
Can Broken Dentures Be Repaired?
In many cases, broken dentures can be repaired, especially if the damage is minor. A small chip or crack might be fixable with an in-office adjustment or denture bonding. However, more extensive damage, like a denture that has split in two or one with missing teeth, may require more significant repairs—or a full replacement.
Avoid the temptation to fix them yourself using glue or DIY repair kits. These quick fixes can cause more harm than good and may permanently damage the denture material or impact your oral health. Instead, contact your dentist as soon as the damage occurs.
What to Do When Your Denture Breaks
If you notice any kind of damage to your denture:
- Remove it immediately to prevent further harm to your gums or mouth.
- Rinse and store it in a denture-safe container or clean water.
- Call your dentist and explain the situation. Many dental offices reserve time for emergencies like this.
- Avoid wearing damaged dentures until your dentist advises it’s safe to do so.
Most emergency dentists will do their best to repair or replace your dentures as quickly as possible, so you’re not left without your smile for long.
About the Practice
At South Jersey Center for Dental Medicine, patients receive expert care in a warm, welcoming environment. Led by Dr. Kristin B. Petulla, DDS, our practice specializes in general, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry—including urgent denture repair. Dr. Petulla combines years of experience with advanced dental technology to provide fast, effective solutions tailored to each patient’s needs. If you’ve suffered a broken denture, don’t wait. Reach out to us for immediate help.
Call us to request an appointment at (856) 282-0631 or schedule your free consultation online.