We’ve all misplaced our keys, wallet, or phone. It tends to happen when we are distracted, tired, or when we make changes to our routines. A lost denture often happens in exactly the same way.
Don’t panic and take your time
First thing to do is take a deep breath. Sit down, relax, and clear your mind.
Next, check any areas where you think your denture might be. Common spots could include your bedside table, the bathroom, the kitchen, or your dining table. Take some time and look everywhere you can think of where you normally would remove your denture.
If you can’t find your lost denture in the usual spots, think back carefully. Try retracing your steps from when you last remember having your denture.
Check your dental insurance policy
If you reach the point where you are confident that your denture is gone for good, contact your denturist. They can submit an inquiry to your dental insurance provider. Some policies will allow for a one-time replacement of a denture in the event that you lose it.
Check your house insurance policy
If dental insurance won’t cover your lost denture, contact your home insurance provider. Some policies classify a lost denture as a loss under your house insurance policy.
We had a patient who not only had coverage for a lost denture but who also did not have to pay the deductible as it was her first claim under her house insurance policy. She received reimbursement for 82% of the cost to have a replacement denture made.
Add your name to your denture
Many patients in care homes and hospitals wear dentures. To a nurse or care provider, one denture looks very similar to every other denture and mixups with dentures can happen.
If you know you will be in a situation where you will be in hospital or care home, consider asking your denturist to add your name to your denture. The process results in a long-lasting and readable bit of text that is added to a non-visible area of your denture. This will help prevent mixups and ensure that if your lost denture is found, it won’t be misidentified as belonging to someone else.