Losing a dental crown can be an unsettling experience, especially if it happens unexpectedly while you’re eating or brushing your teeth. Although dental crowns are designed to be strong and durable, they can still fall off due to factors like tooth decay, wear and tear, or trauma. When this happens, it’s important to act quickly but calmly to protect your exposed tooth and prevent further complications.
Stay Calm and Retrieve the Crown
The first and most important step is to stay calm. While a lost crown can feel like a dental emergency, it’s usually manageable if you take the right steps. Carefully retrieve the crown, whether it has fallen into your mouth, onto the floor, or into the sink. Handle it gently to avoid damaging it further. If the crown is still intact and undamaged, your dentist may be able to re-cement it without needing to create a new one.
If you accidentally swallow the crown, don’t panic. It typically passes through your system without issue. However, you should still consult your dentist. They can advise you on the best course of action based on your individual situation.
Clean the Area Gently
Once you’ve retrieved the crown, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to remove any food particles and to soothe the exposed tooth. Be cautious while brushing or flossing around the area to avoid causing irritation or damage. The underlying tooth is usually filed down and may be sensitive to air, temperature, or pressure. Keeping it clean helps reduce the risk of infection until you can get professional care.
Inspect the Crown and Tooth
Take a moment to examine both the crown and the tooth it came from. If the crown appears broken or cracked, it’s likely that your dentist will need to make a new one. On the other hand, if the crown looks intact and the tooth doesn’t appear damaged, there’s a good chance the crown can be reused. Try to assess whether there are any sharp edges on the tooth or crown that might cause discomfort or injury to your tongue or cheeks.
Temporarily Protect the Tooth
If you can’t get to your dentist right away, it’s important to protect the exposed tooth. Some pharmacies sell over-the-counter dental cement or temporary crown kits. These products can offer short-term relief by securing the crown back in place or covering the exposed area. However, these are not long-term solutions and should only be used until you can get professional help. Avoid using glue or household adhesives, as they are not safe for use in your mouth. During this temporary period, try to avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth. Stick to soft foods and avoid anything sticky, hard, or crunchy that might further damage the crown or tooth.
Contact Your Dentist Promptly
As soon as possible, contact your dentist to explain the situation and schedule an appointment. Most dental offices will prioritize emergencies like a lost crown, especially if you’re experiencing pain or discomfort. When you go in, bring the crown with you so your dentist can determine whether it can be reused or if a new one needs to be made.
At the appointment, your dentist will assess the tooth, check for decay or damage, and decide whether the existing crown can be reattached. If not, you may need a new impression taken for a replacement crown. In some cases, additional dental work may be needed to restore the tooth before a new crown can be placed.
Take Preventative Measures for the Future
After the issue has been resolved, it’s a good idea to ask your dentist about why the crown came off in the first place. Common causes include weakened tooth structure, decay, or a poor fit. Understanding the underlying reason could help prevent similar problems in the future. Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding habits like grinding your teeth or chewing ice could extend the life of your dental crowns.
Dental Crown Treatment in Ellicott City, MD
At Halliburton Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to preserving your oral health. If your dental crown falls off, you could be at risk of further damage. Contact our office right away to schedule an appointment and ensure your tooth is protected.