Losing a dental crown can be a startling experience. Whether it happens while eating, brushing your teeth, or seemingly out of nowhere, it’s not something to ignore. A dental crown is designed to protect a damaged or weakened tooth. When it comes off, the underlying tooth becomes exposed and vulnerable to further damage, discomfort, and infection. The good news is that a lost crown isn’t usually an emergency, but it does require prompt attention. Here’s what you should do to protect your tooth and get it fixed properly.
Stay Calm and Retrieve the Crown
The first step is to stay calm and assess the situation. If the crown has completely fallen off and you can find it, carefully pick it up and rinse it with warm water to remove any debris. Avoid using soap or harsh cleaners, as these can damage the crown. Store it in a clean container or a small plastic bag. In many cases, your dentist may be able to reattach the crown if it’s still intact and undamaged.
Check for Pain or Sensitivity
Once the crown is off, you may notice that the exposed tooth feels sensitive to air, pressure, or temperature. This is common, especially if the underlying tooth still has a nerve. Mild discomfort is expected, but severe pain could indicate that the tooth is damaged or infected. If you experience significant pain, swelling, or signs of an abscess (such as pus or a bad taste), contact your dentist immediately for urgent care.
Protect the Exposed Tooth
Until you can see your dentist, it’s important to protect the exposed tooth from further irritation. Avoid chewing on the affected side and steer clear of very hot, cold, or sticky foods. Over-the-counter dental cement, which you can find at most pharmacies, may be used as a temporary fix to keep the crown in place or cover the tooth. Do not attempt to glue the crown back on using super glue or any other household adhesive. These substances are not safe for oral use and can damage both the crown and your tooth.
Call Your Dentist Promptly
As soon as possible, call your dentist to explain what happened. They will likely schedule an appointment to evaluate the tooth and the crown. If the crown is still in good condition and the tooth underneath is healthy, your dentist may be able to clean both and reattach the crown with fresh dental cement. However, if the crown or tooth is damaged, a new crown may be necessary.
In some cases, the crown falls off because the tooth underneath has decayed or changed shape. If this is the case, your dentist might need to perform additional treatments such as a core buildup or even a root canal before placing a new crown. Prompt action helps minimize the risk of complications and reduces the chances that you’ll need more extensive dental work.
Preventing Future Problems
While no crown lasts forever, you can help extend its life by maintaining good oral hygiene and being mindful of habits that can damage dental work. Brushing and flossing daily, keeping up with dental checkups, and avoiding chewing hard foods like ice or popcorn kernels can all help prevent future issues. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a nightguard to protect both your crowns and natural teeth.
If your crown loosens or falls off, Morristown Cosmetic Dentistry is here to help. Dr. Gittleman and his team work hard to ensure emergency appointments are seen promptly. The longer you wait for treatment, the more at risk your oral health becomes. Contact Morristown Cosmetic Dentistry right away to schedule your appointment and protect your smile.