Discovering that your dental crown has fallen off can be alarming, especially if it happens while you’re eating or brushing your teeth. Although it’s not usually a dental emergency, it does require prompt attention to prevent discomfort, protect your tooth, and avoid further damage. Knowing what to do, and what not to do, can make all the difference in preserving your dental health.
Understanding Why a Crown Might Fall Off
Dental crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but they aren’t indestructible. Over time, the cement that holds the crown in place can weaken, especially if you’ve had it for many years. Decay can also form beneath the crown, compromising its bond to the tooth. In some cases, sticky or hard foods can pull a crown loose, or teeth grinding may wear it down over time. Even a small crack or improper fit can eventually cause a crown to detach.
When a crown falls off, the underlying tooth, often already weakened by decay or previous treatment, is exposed. This can make the area sensitive to temperature changes, pressure, or even air. Acting quickly helps prevent pain and increases the chances that your dentist could reattach the crown instead of needing to replace it entirely.
First Steps to Take When Your Crown Comes Off
If your crown comes off, the first thing to do is stay calm. Retrieve the crown right away if possible, handling it carefully by the outer surface rather than the inside. Rinse it gently with warm water to remove any debris. Do not attempt to clean it with soap, alcohol, or other cleaners, as these can damage the materials.
Next, inspect the tooth that was under the crown. If it looks jagged or feels sharp, try to avoid touching it with your tongue to prevent irritation. Sometimes, the crown will come off cleanly with little discomfort. Other times, it may expose sensitive dentin, which can cause sudden pain when eating or drinking.
If you can, place the crown back over the tooth temporarily. Some pharmacies sell dental repair cement designed for short-term use. This can help hold the crown in place and protect your tooth until you see your dentist. Avoid using superglue or household adhesives. These can damage both the crown and your tooth and make professional reattachment impossible.
Protecting Your Tooth Until You See a Dentist
While waiting for your dental appointment, try to keep the area clean and avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth. Stick to soft foods and avoid anything sticky, hard, or crunchy. If your tooth feels sensitive, you can use a desensitizing toothpaste or rinse with warm salt water to soothe discomfort.
If the crown cannot be temporarily replaced, it’s especially important to protect the exposed tooth. Covering it lightly with dental wax, available at most drugstores, can shield it from irritation. If you experience significant pain, swelling, or signs of infection, contact your dentist right away. These symptoms could indicate that more than the crown is affected.
What Your Dentist Will Do
When you visit your dentist, they’ll examine both the tooth and the crown to determine why it came off. If the crown and underlying tooth are still in good shape, your dentist can often clean the surfaces and re-cement the crown securely. This is a relatively simple and quick procedure. If the crown or tooth has been damaged, however, you may need a replacement crown. In cases where decay has developed under the crown, the dentist will remove the decay and rebuild the tooth before fitting a new one.
Preventing Future Crown Problems
Once your crown has been repaired or replaced, you can reduce the risk of it coming loose again by maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and avoiding very sticky or hard foods helps keep crowns secure. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a mouthguard to protect your restorations.
Dental Crown Care in Roslyn Heights, NY
At East Hills Dental Associates, your oral health is our top priority. If you have extensive decay or damage, a dental crown could help restore your bite and quality of life. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.