Denture problems: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek emergency help if a denture causes choking, breathing difficulty, or inability to swallow saliva.

   Sudden severe facial or neck swelling, especially with breathing or swallowing problems, is also an emergency.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Request prompt dental or medical assessment if:

   • An ulcer, lump, or red or white patch lasts about two weeks
   • Pain or swelling is worsening
   • You develop fever, pus, or a bad taste with dental or facial pain
   • A partial denture has been swallowed
   • A broken edge is cutting your mouth
   • Pain prevents adequate eating or drinking
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange a routine dental appointment if your denture is loose, cracked, uncomfortable, or increasingly reliant on adhesive.

   Also seek care for persistent redness, bad breath, chewing difficulty, or sore mouth corners.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Denture problems. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.