Losing a dental crown can be an unsettling experience, especially if it happens unexpectedly while you’re eating, brushing, or even talking. While it’s not usually a dental emergency, a lost crown should be addressed promptly to avoid discomfort or further damage to your tooth. With the right steps, you can manage the situation calmly and protect your smile. Here’s what to do if your dental crown falls off.
Stay Calm and Find the Crown
First and foremost, don’t panic. Dental crowns can come loose for a variety of reasons – wear and tear, decay beneath the tooth, or trauma – but the situation is usually manageable. If possible, locate the crown and keep it in a clean container. In many cases, your dentist may be able to reattach it.
If the crown is damaged or you accidentally swallowed it, let your dentist know. They’ll advise whether a new one needs to be made.
Examine the Tooth and Crown
Gently check the tooth and crown. Avoid poking or pressing hard. If the tooth underneath is sensitive or jagged, be careful when eating or drinking. You may notice that the exposed tooth is darker or smaller than you remember; this is normal, as teeth are often reshaped to fit under a crown.
If the crown is intact and clean, your dentist might be able to reuse it, saving time and money.
Call Your Dentist
Don’t wait too long to contact your dentist. Even if you’re not in pain, leaving the tooth exposed can lead to sensitivity, shifting of surrounding teeth, or even damage to the tooth structure. Let your dentist know what happened, whether you still have the crown, and if you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort. They’ll schedule an appointment and let you know if you need to be seen urgently.
Protect the Exposed Tooth
Until you can get to the dentist, protect the exposed tooth from temperature extremes, pressure, and bacteria. Here are a few tips:
- Avoid sticky or hard foods that could irritate or damage the tooth.
- Chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- If you’re feeling sensitivity, over-the-counter dental wax or temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies) can be applied to cover and protect the tooth temporarily.
Do not try to glue the crown back on yourself with household adhesives – they’re not safe for oral use and can damage the tooth or crown.
Attend Your Dental Appointment
At your dental visit, your dentist will examine the tooth and crown. If both are in good shape, the crown may be cleaned and re-cemented. If there’s decay, damage, or wear, your dentist may need to create a new crown. In either case, restoring the crown quickly helps preserve the health and function of your tooth.
Losing a dental crown can feel alarming, but it’s a common dental issue with a straightforward solution. By staying calm, protecting the tooth, and calling your dentist promptly, you can avoid complications and get your smile back on track in no time.
About the Practice
Has your crown come loose? Here at Cove Choice Dental, we’ll take care of you as quickly as possible. If the crown simply needs reattaching, we can handle that. If you need a new appliance, we can complete treatment in one, convenient visit to our office. We’re an insurance-friendly dental practice with low-interest financing available to restore your smile. Call us today at our Copperas Cove office to schedule your appointment at (254) 987-6777 or visit our website.