Denture and Crown Emergencies

Specific Steps for Handling Various Types of Denture or Crown Breakages 

Dentures and crowns are crucial dental appliances that enhance oral health and restore functionality. However, emergencies related to dentures and crowns can arise, causing discomfort and requiring prompt attention. 

Denture and crown emergencies can disrupt daily life and oral health. Timely professional intervention is crucial for effectively addressing these issues. Regular dental check-ups and proper care can minimize the risk of emergencies, ensuring the longevity and functionality of dentures and crowns. 

If you experience any issues, don't hesitate to contact your dentist for prompt and personalized care. The occurrence of crown and denture emergencies may fluctuate based on several factors, such as personal oral health, lifestyle, and maintenance habits. 

While these emergencies may not be as common as routine dental issues, they do occur. Therefore, we'll enlighten you about specific steps to handle crown and denture breakages. This will help you be well-prepared to address these situations promptly and effectively. So, let's get started.

Types of Crown and Denture Emergencies 

Dental emergencies related to dentures and crowns can vary in nature and severity. Understanding the types of emergencies associated with these dental appliances is crucial for prompt intervention and effective resolution. Here's a detailed explanation of the common types of dental emergencies related to dentures and crowns: 

Denture Emergencies 

• Fractured Dentures: Dentures are susceptible to fractures due to accidental falls, improper handling, or biting on stiff substances. Refrain from using the broken denture. Schedule an appointment with your dentist for assessment and potential repair or replacement. 
• Loose or Ill-fitting Dentures: Over time, dentures may become loose or ill-fitting, leading to discomfort, difficulty chewing, and potential gum irritation. Contact your dentist to address the issue promptly. You may require modifications to guarantee an appropriate fit and avert additional oral health problems. 
• Broken Denture Base: The denture base may break, affecting stability and overall functionality. Seek immediate professional assistance. Attempting to fix the denture at home may exacerbate the damage. A professional assessment by your dentist can determine the extent of the breakage and suggest suitable solutions. 
• Gum Irritation or Sores: Prolonged use or poor denture fit can cause gum irritation, sores, and potential infections. Remove the dentures, clean them thoroughly, and allow your gums time to heal. If the irritation persists, consult your dentist for a proper assessment and adjustment. 

Crown Emergencies 

• Lost Crown: A crown may become dislodged due to trauma, decay, or weakened cement. Retrieve the crown, keep it clean, and see your dentist promptly for re-cementation. Avoid chewing on the affected side until the crown gets reattached. 
• Crown Fracture: Crowns can fracture due to excessive force, underlying issues, or natural wear and tear. Minimize chewing on the affected side and consult your dentist for an evaluation. Depending on the severity of the fracture, replacement or repair may be necessary. 
• Tooth Sensitivity: Sensitivity around a crowned tooth may indicate underlying issues such as decay or nerve irritation. Get in touch with your dentist to identify the cause of sensitivity. Swift intervention can prevent additional complications and safeguard the durability of the crown. 
• Loose Crown: A crown may become loose, compromising its stability and potentially leading to complete dislodgment. Urgently seek dental attention to avert additional damage. Your dentist will evaluate the situation and implement necessary measures, which could involve re-cementation or replacement. 

“In the face of dental emergencies, act swiftly to preserve your oral health.” 

Ways to Handle Crown and Denture Breakages 

Managing denture or crown breakages demands a meticulous and systematic approach to guarantee the optimal outcome for oral health. Whether faced with a fractured denture, a lost crown, or any other dental emergency, taking specific steps can make a significant difference. Below are detailed guidelines for handling various types of denture or crown breakages: 

Handling Denture Breakages 

• Fractured Dentures 

If your dentures fracture, avoid using them immediately. Continued use can worsen the damage and potentially harm your oral tissues. Collect all the broken pieces carefully. Rinse them with water to remove any debris or dirt. Contact your dentist promptly to arrange an appointment for assessment and repair. 

Attempting to fix the dentures at home may lead to further damage and compromise their effectiveness. If you cannot visit the dentist immediately, consider using a denture adhesive or over-the-counter repair kit as a temporary solution. However, these are not substitutes for professional repair. 

• Loose or Ill-fitting Dentures 

If your dentures become loose or ill-fitting, remove them immediately to prevent further irritation or damage to your gums. Examine the dentures for any visible damage or changes in shape. 

Rinse them thoroughly to remove debris. Contact your dentist to set up an appointment for necessary adjustments. Ill-fitting dentures can lead to oral sores, and timely adjustments are crucial for maintaining oral health. 

• Broken Denture Base 

Do not attempt to fix a broken denture base at home. DIY repairs may result in improper alignment, affecting functionality. Collect all broken pieces carefully. Afterward, put them in a secure container or plastic bag for transportation to the dentist. 

• Gum Irritation or Sores 

If you experience gum irritation or sores, remove your dentures to allow your gums to breathe and heal. Rinse the dentures thoroughly to remove any debris or bacteria. Soak them in a denture cleanser as recommended by your dentist. 

Allow your gums time to heal without the pressure of dentures. If the irritation persists, contact your dentist for a comprehensive examination and necessary adjustments. 

Handling Crown Breakages 

• Lost Crown 

If your crown becomes dislodged, try to locate it. Handle it carefully and refrain from touching the inner surface that fits onto the tooth. Rinse the crown gently under running water to remove any debris. Do not use any cleaning agents or brushes. 

Keep the crown in a safe and clean container until you can see your dentist. Avoid attempting to re-cement it at home, as this requires professional expertise. Contact your dentist promptly to schedule an emergency appointment for re-cementation. 

• Crown Fracture 

If your crown breaks, avoid chewing on that side to prevent more damage. Check the crown for cracks, but don't touch the inside part that fits on your tooth. These simple steps can help avoid extra problems and keep your dental work in good shape. Contact your dentist for an immediate assessment. 

• Tooth Sensitivity 

If you experience sensitivity around a crowned tooth, try to identify the cause. It could be due to decay, nerve irritation, or other underlying issues. Temporarily avoid consuming hot or cold foods and beverages that may exacerbate sensitivity. 

Adhere to proper oral hygiene practices to prevent additional complications. Arrange an appointment with your dentist to identify the cause of sensitivity and receive suitable treatment. 

• Loose Crown 

If a crown becomes loose, refrain from chewing on the affected side to prevent complete dislodgment. Examine the loose crown for any visible damage or changes. If possible, avoid touching the inside surface. Contact your dentist promptly for an emergency appointment. 

General Tips for Handling Denture and Crown Emergencies 

• Whether dealing with dentures or crown emergencies, seeking prompt, professional assistance is crucial. Procrastinating on treatment can lead to further complications and compromise oral health. 
• Gather and safeguard the fractured pieces in a broken dental appliance. This practice facilitates the dentist's evaluation of the extent of the damage and decision-making. 
• Avoid using at-home remedies, especially for dentures; avoid DIY repairs. These temporary solutions may not address the root cause and could lead to additional problems. 
• Regular oral hygiene practices prevent emergencies, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing. 
• Regular dental check-ups are crucial for detecting potential issues early on. 
• If you experience any discomfort, changes in fit, or other concerns related to dentures or crowns, communicate with your dentist promptly. 
• Adhering to your dentist's care and maintenance guidelines is crucial after undergoing repairs or adjustments. It includes using recommended cleaning agents and scheduling follow-up appointments as advised. 

Conclusion 

Dealing with emergencies like a loose denture or a lost crown can be stressful. It's important to know what steps to take and to act quickly. Don't hesitate to contact your dentist as soon as possible for help. You can navigate these situations more effectively by staying proactive about dental care and learning preventive measures. Remember, taking care of your dental health is crucial, so don't delay seeking assistance when needed.

Contact Dr. Tiziana Procopio Towle, DDS, at Procopio Towle Dental Office, your Walnut Creek Dentist, to learn more about Denture and Crown Emergencies.

Resource:

How do you make your dentures last long?

*This media/content or any other on this website does not prescribe, recommend, or prevent any treatment or procedure. Therefore, we highly recommend that you get the advice of a qualified dentist or other medical practitioners regarding your specific dental condition.