Bilateral mainstem bronchial obstruction by aspirated dentures: a diagnostic surprise and therapeutic challenge

Foreign body (FB) aspiration in adults is uncommon and often overlooked, particularly without a clear history of aspiration. Bilateral airway obstruction due to aspirated dentures is exceptionally rare and may mimic chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), resulting in diagnostic delay. We report the case of a male patient in his 40s with a known history of COPD, who presented with progressively worsening respiratory symptoms. Imaging revealed radio-opaque FBs in the bilateral mainstem bronchi. Flexible bronchoscopy confirmed and enabled successful retrieval of dentures from both bronchi, leading to marked clinical improvement. This case highlights the importance of considering FB aspiration in adults with unexplained or refractory respiratory symptoms and demonstrates the utility of flexible bronchoscopy for both diagnosis and management.