Too Much To Swallow? A Case Report Of An Ingested Denture

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Gastroenterology
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Ingested foreign bodies present a serious and potentially lethal threat to patients.
• Removable partial dentures, while common dental prostheses, can pose unique risks if ingested.

Observation:

• A patient accidentally swallowed an upper Kennedy Class I removable partial denture.
• The prosthesis design was identified as a contributing factor to the ingestion event.
• Immediate medical and surgical intervention was required.

Findings:

• The case underscores the potential for Kennedy Class I removable partial dentures to be ingested.
• Management involved a multidisciplinary approach to ensure patient safety.
• Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.

Implications:

• This case highlights the need for improved denture design considerations to minimize ingestion risks.
• Enhanced patient education regarding the handling and maintenance of removable prostheses is recommended.
• Further research into the biomechanics and failure modes of removable partial dentures may prevent future incidents.