What To Do If Your Dental Crown Falls Off
A dental crown is an effective way to save a tooth that has been weakened or damaged due to injury, wear, or decay. They can be made of metal, resin, porcelain, or ceramic. This artificial restoration is shaped like your natural tooth and will cover, protect, and restore your tooth structure when the damage is beyond what a traditional filling can repair. A dental crown is cemented in place over the remaining portion of the damaged tooth and can last for many years with proper care. But sometimes a dental crown can become loose, damaged, or fall out. This is considered a dental emergency and you should see your dentist as soon as possible. Here is what you need to know.
If you require emergency dentistry after hours,
call our emergency phone number (available on our answering machine)
and Dr. Korol will get back to you promptly.
How To Deal With A Crown That Is Loose Or Fallen Out
Perhaps you are playing a sport and get bumped in the mouth, or maybe you are eating dinner and bite down and unexpectedly you feel something strange in your mouth. Your dental crown has become completely dislodged. Here is what you should do:
Step 1: Retrieve the dental crown from your mouth, rinse it with warm water, and store it somewhere safe like a plastic zipper bag or a small container. If the dental crown is not cracked, broken, or otherwise damaged, your dentist might be able to reattach it and save you the expense of a new crown.
Step 2: Call your dentist right away. The underlying tooth is weak and you could experience extreme sensitivity now that it is unprotected. It is critical to have your crown replaced as soon as you can.
Step 3: Your emergency dentist might recommend that you try to place the dental crown back on your tooth. This can be done using a gentle, temporary dental adhesive available at the pharmacy or even using toothpaste or sugar-free gum.
Step 4: Protect your tooth. If you are unable to replace the crown, you need to protect your tooth until you can see your dentist. Your tooth is likely sensitive and may be sore. You can protect your tooth using a temporary dental cement (available at the pharmacy) that will create a protective coating and reduce sensitivity. You could also use dental wax or sugar-free gum to form a protective clump-like barrier around your tooth.
Step 5: See your dentist right away. It is possible that your dentist may be able to reapply your existing dental crown if it is undamaged and your underlying tooth is not injured. If there is damage to the crown or your remaining tooth structure, you may require further treatment to your tooth and a new crown.
What Not To Do When Your Crown Falls Off
- Do not eat foods that are hard, sticky, or that may become trapped around your exposed tooth (like strawberries and sesame seeds).
- Do not chew food on the affected side of your mouth.
- Do not brush the affected tooth and be gentle when brushing your other teeth.
- Avoid very hot and very cold foods and drinks.
Dental Crown Reattachment Or Replacement At Dr. Korol Dental
If your dental crown has become loose or has fallen off, it is a dental emergency. Follow the steps above to protect your dental crown and your tooth and call your dentist right away. Quick and careful action will give you the best chances for reattachment.
If you require emergency dentistry after hours,
call our emergency phone number (available on our answering machine)
and Dr. Korol will get back to you promptly.
The team at Dr. Korol Dentistry is committed to the healthiest tooth restoration options available. To learn more about your options for dental crown biocompatible restorations read Dental Crowns: Everything You Need To Know and book an appointment at Dr. Korol Dental to experience how a holistic approach to dental care can elevate your dental experience and optimize your overall health.
Dr. Korol and her skilled and compassionate team are committed to providing the highest quality and safest, most holistic approach to dental care, oral health, and overall well-being. We offer the newest and most effective treatments and technologies to support a lifetime of good health. Book your appointment by calling (403) 245-9099 or filling out our online form.
FAQ
Your dentist will use a local anaesthetic on the tooth receiving the dental crown as well as on the surrounding gum tissue so you do not feel any pain or discomfort.
For the most part, dental crowns require only the same care and hygiene as your natural teeth. But for some specific tips and a basic hygiene refresher, read Dental Crowns Care and Cleaning. And don’t forget to book your regular six-month check up and cleaning with the team at Dr. Korol.
The average lifespan of a partial dental crown is between 5 and 20 years, depending on the material used and with proper care and professional hygiene.
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