A dental crown falling off can be an alarming experience, especially if it happens unexpectedly while you’re eating or talking. Crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but they can sometimes loosen and detach due to wear, trauma, or underlying dental issues. Knowing how to respond calmly and effectively can protect your tooth, prevent pain, and help you avoid further complications.
Stay Calm and Retrieve the Crown
The first step is to remain calm. Although it can be uncomfortable and even painful, a crown falling off is not typically a dental emergency. If possible, locate the crown and keep it safe. It’s best to place it in a small container or plastic bag to bring with you to the dentist. If you accidentally swallowed it, don’t panic. In most cases, it will pass naturally through your digestive system, but you should still consult your dentist.
Examine Your Tooth and Crown
After securing the crown, gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If you’re not experiencing intense pain or swelling, you can take a closer look at the exposed tooth. Sometimes, a crown falls off because the cement holding it in place has worn away, but other times it could be due to decay or a fracture. Avoid probing the tooth too much, as it may be sensitive or fragile without the crown’s protection.
Similarly, take a look at the inside of the crown. If it appears mostly intact and the tooth underneath seems undamaged, your dentist might be able to simply re-cement the crown. However, if the crown is cracked or there’s evidence of decay on the tooth, further treatment could be necessary.
Protect the Tooth in the Meantime
A tooth that has lost its crown is vulnerable to sensitivity, damage, and bacteria. If you’re unable to see a dentist right away, you can protect the exposed area with over-the-counter temporary dental cement or even dental wax. These products, available at most drugstores, can help cover the tooth and reduce sensitivity to air, temperature, or pressure. It’s important to avoid using glue or household adhesives, as these can be toxic and damage the tooth further.
While waiting for your appointment, try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth and stick to soft foods. Avoid anything sticky, hard, or very hot or cold. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing gently around the area and rinsing with warm salt water to keep it clean.
Call Your Dentist as Soon as Possible
Even if you’re not in pain, it’s important to contact your dentist promptly. They’ll want to assess the situation, check for any underlying problems, and determine whether the crown can be reused. In some cases, the dentist may need to clean the tooth, treat decay, or make a new crown entirely.
The timeline for getting the crown replaced depends on the condition of both the tooth and the crown. If it’s a simple case of re-cementing, your dentist may be able to take care of it during a quick visit. However, if more extensive work is required, you may need to schedule a follow-up appointment or wait for a new crown to be fabricated.
Preventing Future Problems
Crowns can come loose for various reasons, including biting on hard objects, grinding your teeth, or gradual breakdown of the dental cement. Regular dental checkups help identify issues early and allow your dentist to reinforce the crown if needed. If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a night guard to protect your dental work. Practicing good oral hygiene also helps keep your natural tooth structure and gums healthy, which supports the longevity of your crown.
Dental Crown Care in Durham, NC
At Oak Grove Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we know how unsettling it can be when your dental restorations fail. That’s why we work hard to ensure every patient is seen as soon as possible to fix the damage. If you loose a dental crown, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact our office and schedule an appointment to safeguard your oral health.