A dental crown is designed to protect and strengthen a damaged or weakened tooth, helping restore your bite and smile. But even the strongest crown can occasionally come loose or fall off completely. Whether it happens while eating, brushing, or seemingly out of nowhere, losing a crown can be stressful and sometimes uncomfortable. Knowing what to do right away can make all the difference in protecting your tooth and avoiding further complications.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first and most important step is to stay calm. A fallen crown is rarely an emergency, but it does require prompt attention. Take a moment to locate the crown. If it’s still in your mouth, carefully remove it to avoid swallowing or inhaling it by accident. Rinse the crown gently with warm water to remove any food debris or residue. Avoid scrubbing it or using soap, as you might damage the surface or the inner lining that helps it fit snugly on your tooth.
Next, examine the tooth where the crown came off. It may look smaller or oddly shaped since part of it was prepared to fit under the crown. In some cases, the exposed tooth may feel sensitive to temperature or pressure. You might also notice some roughness or sharp edges. These sensations are normal but should be handled carefully to avoid irritating your tongue or surrounding tissue.
Protect the Exposed Tooth
Once the crown is off, the underlying tooth is vulnerable to sensitivity, decay, and further damage. Until you can see your dentist, you’ll want to keep it protected. If the tooth feels tender, you can apply a small amount of dental cement or temporary crown adhesive, available at most pharmacies. Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully and avoid using household glues, which are toxic and can harm your tooth or gums.
If you can temporarily reattach the crown yourself, make sure the inside is clean and dry before placing it over the tooth. Using temporary dental cement, gently press it into place without forcing it. Never use glue or any other adhesives. This should only be considered a short-term fix until your dentist can examine it properly. If the crown doesn’t fit comfortably or feels loose, it’s better to leave it off to prevent swallowing or damaging it further.
To minimize discomfort, avoid chewing on the exposed side of your mouth. Stick to soft foods that require minimal pressure, such as yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, or smoothies. Extremely hot or cold foods can increase sensitivity, so room-temperature options are best until your crown is securely reattached.
Schedule a Dental Appointment
Even if you manage to temporarily secure the crown, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. The longer the tooth remains exposed, the greater the risk of decay or shifting. Most dental offices understand that a lost crown is an urgent issue and will do their best to see you quickly.
When you call, explain what happened and let the staff know if you still have the crown. Bring it with you to the appointment in a clean container or plastic bag. In many cases, your dentist can simply re-cement the crown if it’s still intact. However, if the crown or underlying tooth has been damaged, a new crown or additional dental work may be necessary.
Preventing Future Crown Problems
Once your crown is repaired or replaced, taking a few simple precautions can help prevent a repeat incident. Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or other tough foods that can loosen or crack a crown. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily, but be gentle around the crown’s edges to prevent dislodging it. Regular dental checkups are also essential, as your dentist can spot early signs of wear or looseness before they become major issues.
Dental Crown Care in Buford, GA
At Lanier Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthier bite and smile. If you have excessive decay or damage, a dental crown could help prevent further complications and tooth loss. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.