What should you do if you swallow a dental bridge or a denture?

Most people who swallow a dental prosthesis, do so by accident. Often people do not even realize they have swallowed a bridge or a denture, its loss is discovered later. Sometimes it takes x-ray imaging to convince a person that a dental object has been swallowed- the truth can be a bit hard to swallow! ;)

When there are no symptoms; an x-ray or any other type of imaging, helps to check whether the position of the denture or bridge in the body is dangerous. In most cases, a physician’s initial suggestion will be to wait and watch.

Yes, a swallowed dental bridge usually obeys the old proverb, “This too shall pass”. You may be advised to keep close watch for 3-4 days and you may find the worry was just a “passing” thing ;) Do not attempt to vomit or take laxatives, it may do more harm than good. Unless a bridge is really very large, it is unlikely that you would have to take any further measures. You can wait and cross your bridges when you come to them. :)

Dental bridges are sometimes worth a small fortune. You can opt to have a retrieved bridge cleaned, sterilized and replaced in the mouth.

A swallowed denture with clasps can be a little tricky. Now this may be a bitter pill to swallow, but you may be advised to schedule a removal procedure. The hooks on a denture can lead to perforations so preventive steps are often necessary.

If you develop symptoms of painful swallowing, sore throat, choking sensation, fever, pain in the chest or abdomen, the dental object has to be removed using an interventional procedure. An inhaled dental prosthesis can cause a severe cough and difficulty in breathing. An immediate visit to the ER is the best bet.

Prevention: Your dentures and bridges need to have a good fit. Age-related bone changes can cause loosening of dentures. Never wear dentures at night. Prolonged denture use leads to decreased palate sensitivity. Along with chicken and fish bones, dentures can be swallowed by mistake. Always…always chew your food properly! This will make it less likely that you will swallow a dental prosthesis.