If you’ve lost all your teeth, dentures are a great way to rehabilitate your oral health and quality of life. You rely on them to maintain a balanced diet and a confident smile which is why you try your best to ensure they last for many years. Unfortunately, you can’t always protect them from unforeseen circumstances beyond your control, like a playful pet. You’ve heard about a dog eating a child’s homework, but what happens if your canine companion gnaws your dentures? Don’t panic! Your dentist is here to help.
What Can I Do If My Dog Ate My Dentures?
Even the most well-behaved dog can turn dentures into their new favorite chew toy if you leave them lying around, which will likely lead to significant damage unless you stop them immediately. If your replacement teeth have a few bite marks, aesthetics aren’t the only concern.
The indents from their teeth can irritate or injure the gum tissue. In some cases, the denture can be weakened and at risk of breaking if the tooth marks are deep. It’s best to stop using your denture and contact your dentist right away.
Can My Dentist Fix My Denture?
Your dentist will evaluate your denture to determine the severity of the destruction left behind by your dog. If the teeth marks aren’t too significant, they can often smooth and polish your denture to make it more comfortable and beautiful again. Sadly, if your dog had a hold of it for too long, your dentist may not be able to fix it. This is especially true if your denture is bent or distorted.
You’re not out of options. Your dentist can provide you with a replacement, or you can turn to another solution. If you tend to misplace your teeth, it might be time to ask your dentist about an implant-retained denture.
What is an Implant-Retained Denture?
A dental implant consists of a titanium post, an abutment, and a restoration to recreate the entire structure of a tooth, including the root. If you’ve lost all your teeth, you don’t need to treat them individually. Instead, 4 to 10 dental implants can be used to anchor your denture to your jawbone. This permanently eliminates slipping and irritation. Not to mention, you’ll never need to worry about your dog getting ahold of your denture or accidentally leaving your teeth in your pocket.
Restore Your Smile Today
If your dog ate your dentures, there isn’t any reason to worry. Your dentist will fix or replace them, so you can enjoy a beautiful, complete smile again.
About Dr. Robert Blake
Dr. Blake earned his dental degree from the Georgetown University School of Dentistry. He regularly completes additional training each year to provide modern services to his patients. Dr. Blake can treat even the most complex issues, like tooth loss. Whether you need to have your dentures repaired or you’re interested in dental implants, he can help. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.