A dental crown falling out can be scary. Whether it happens while you’re eating, brushing your teeth, or out of nowhere, you might feel worried or embarrassed. The good news is that a lost crown is usually fixable. Knowing what to do can help you protect your tooth and get the problem fixed quickly.
At Cove Family Dentistry in Owens Cross Roads, AL, Dr. Elizabeth Duling and her team help patients deal with lost crowns all the time. This guide will walk you through the steps to take if your crown falls out.
Follow These Steps If A Dental Crown Falls Out
Dr. Duling recommends that you take these steps as soon as you lose a crown.
Stay Calm and Find the Crown
First, if you can find the crown, pick it up carefully. Check to see if it’s in one piece or if there are any cracks. Rinse the crown gently under warm water to remove food or debris. Don’t scrub it with a toothbrush or use soap or toothpaste. You want to clean it without causing damage.
Place the crown in a small container or plastic bag to keep it safe. Don’t wrap it in a tissue or napkin because you might accidentally throw it away. If the crown is in good shape, we may be able to cement it back on, which saves you time and money.
Protect Your Exposed Tooth
When a crown falls off, the tooth underneath becomes exposed. This tooth was shaped and prepared when the crown was first placed, so it’s smaller than a normal tooth. Without the crown protecting it, this tooth can be very sensitive.
You’ll probably notice discomfort when you breathe in cold air or eat hot, cold, or sweet foods. Here’s how to protect the exposed tooth until you can see Dr. Duling:
- Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Stick to soft foods like scrambled eggs, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup. Stay away from anything crunchy, chewy, or hard.
- Keep the area clean. Gently brush the exposed tooth and rinse your mouth with warm salt water after meals. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. This helps reduce bacteria and soothes your gums.
- Watch what you eat and drink. Avoid very hot or very cold foods and drinks. Also skip sticky foods like caramel or taffy that could damage the tooth.
Don’t Use Household Glue
You might be tempted to glue the crown back on yourself, especially if you have an important event coming up. While some pharmacies sell temporary dental cement you can use for a day or two, you should never use household glue.
Products like superglue, Gorilla Glue, nail glue, or wood adhesive are not safe for your mouth. They can be toxic and can damage both your tooth and crown. They also make it much harder for your dentist to fix the problem later.
If you do use temporary dental cement from a pharmacy, follow the directions carefully. Make sure both the crown and your tooth are completely dry before applying it. Remember that this is only a short-term solution. You still need to see Dr. Duling as soon as possible.
Manage Pain and Sensitivity
Most people feel some sensitivity after losing a crown, but not always severe pain. If you’re uncomfortable, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. Just follow the dosage instructions on the bottle.
If the exposed tooth has rough or sharp edges that bother your tongue or cheek, you can buy dental wax at most pharmacies. Dry the tooth and apply a small amount of wax to smooth over the sharp area. This works especially well at night.
If you have severe pain, swelling, or fever, call Cove Family Dentistry right away. These symptoms could mean you have an infection that needs immediate attention.
Call Your Dentist Quickly
Even if you’re not in pain, you need to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Here’s why waiting is a bad idea:
Your tooth is at risk for decay. Without its protective crown, bacteria can quickly attack the exposed tooth.
Your other teeth can shift. When there’s a gap or an improperly fitted tooth, your other teeth may start to move. This affects your bite and can cause more problems.
The fix gets harder over time. What could be a simple 20-minute repair might turn into needing a new crown or other dental work if you wait too long.
When you call the Owens Cross Roads office, explain when the crown fell out and whether you’re having any pain. Our team at Cove Family Dentistry will work to get you in quickly.
What to Expect at the Dental Appointment
During your visit, the dentist will examine both the crown and the tooth. If the crown is still in good condition and the tooth has not been damaged, it may be cleaned and cemented back into place. If decay is present or the crown no longer fits properly, a new crown may be needed. Your dentist will explain the best option for your specific situation and ensure the tooth is protected.
Preventing Future Crown Problems
While crowns are durable, they are not indestructible. Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, helps prevent decay around the crown. Avoid chewing ice, hard candies, or other hard objects that can loosen or crack dental work. Regular dental checkups also allow your dentist to monitor crowns and address minor issues before they become bigger problems.
Dental Crown Care in Owens Cross Roads, AL
At Cove Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping our patients maintain their bites and smiles. A dental crown can protect your tooth and prevent the need for extraction. If yours comes loose or falls out, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact our office right away to schedule an appointment and ensure your oral health is taken care of.