Swallowed a Porcelain Denture: What to Expect and How to Handle It

Accidents can happen, and sometimes they involve items we least expect. For instance, if you've ever had a porcelain denture and found yourself waking up to the smell of toilet water rather than the comfort of your mouth in the morning, you might wonder, 'What do I do now?'

First, it's important to remain calm and consider the situation carefully. Porcelain dentures, like real teeth, can generally pass through your digestive system without causing significant harm. However, this doesn't mean you should handle the situation alone. Always contact your dentist or doctor if you believe you may have swallowed a porcelain denture or any other foreign object.

Reasons for Seeking Medical Advice

Swallowing a porcelain denture, or any other foreign object, can present some risks. These objects have the potential to cause intestinal obstructions or even perforate through the intestines. This is more common in young children, but it can also happen in adults. It's crucial to be aware of the potential dangers and take appropriate action.

Monitoring and Managing the Situation

The good news is that most foreign objects will pass through the digestive tract within 24 to 48 hours. However, patience is key during this period. Here are some steps you can take to monitor the situation:

Examining Your Stool

Begin by examining every stool you pass for the porcelain denture. Use a container to collect your feces, allowing you to move the stool around and search for the denture. Keeping a small sieve handy can be quite helpful. You can use it to sift through your stool, ensuring you don't miss the porcelain denture.

It's a good idea to keep two containers: one for searching and one for fresh feces to go through. Thoroughly inspect each portion of your stool. If you have a sieve with holes that won't allow the tooth to pass through, place it over the toilet and run water through, flushing the stool while retaining the denture.

Do not flush the denture down the toilet unless it's necessary to keep it intact and in your possession. Keep it clean and dry until you can show it to your dentist or a medical professional.

Understand the Digestive Process

The time it takes for the porcelain denture to pass through your system can vary. Factors such as your digestive speed, diet, and overall health can influence this process. Somewhere between one to three days is a reasonable timeframe, but it can be longer in some cases.

What Not to Do

It's tempting to take matters into your own hands, but there are a few things you should avoid:

Don't force yourself to vomit: This can be harmful and may not actually remove the denture. Vomiting can also introduce bacteria from your stomach into your esophagus and throat, which can be very dangerous. Don't insert any objects into your mouth or throat: This can cause additional injuries or make the situation worse. Swallowing sharp or jagged objects might cause cuts or tears in your esophagus or stomach. Don't ignore the pain or discomfort: If you experience severe pain, vomiting, or other concerning symptoms, immediately seek medical attention.

Seek Immediate Help if Necessary

While the vast majority of swallowed objects do pass safely through the digestive system, there are situations where you may need immediate medical attention:

If you experience severe abdominal pain.

If you vomit blood or notice blood in your stool.

If you have difficulty breathing or feel lightheaded.

Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry when dealing with swallowed objects. Contact your dentist or a medical professional if you have any concerns.

Conclusion

Swallowing a porcelain denture is a frightening experience, but it's important to know that the denture will often pass through your digestive system safely. However, you should always consult with a medical professional if you suspect the presence of a foreign object. Patience, careful monitoring, and seeking appropriate medical care are the best strategies to ensure a safe and healthy outcome.