Losing a dental crown can be stressful, especially if it happens unexpectedly while eating, brushing, or during a normal part of your day. While a lost crown isn’t usually a dental emergency, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your exposed tooth and avoid further complications. The good news is that with a little care and prompt attention from your dentist, the situation can usually be resolved quickly. Here’s what to do if you lose a dental crown.
#1. Don’t Panic – Stay Calm
First and foremost, stay calm. Dental crowns can fall off for a variety of reasons, including wear and tear, tooth decay, or a poor fit. While it may be uncomfortable or concerning, losing a crown is a relatively common dental issue and can typically be fixed without major intervention.
#2. Retrieve the Crown
If possible, locate and save the crown. Inspect it carefully, and rinse it gently with warm water to remove any debris. Store it in a small, clean container or plastic bag, and bring it with you to your dental appointment. In many cases, your dentist may be able to clean and reattach the original crown if it’s still intact and the underlying tooth is healthy.
#3. Examine the Affected Area
Take a look at the tooth where the crown was. If you see sharp edges, cracks, or signs of damage, be especially careful not to irritate the area. The exposed tooth may be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, or painful when touched or while eating. Avoid probing the tooth or attempting to fix it yourself beyond temporary care measures.
#4. Protect the Tooth
To avoid discomfort and protect the tooth from damage or infection, steer clear of hard, crunchy, sticky, or sugary foods until you see your dentist. If you’re experiencing sensitivity, you can purchase over-the-counter temporary dental cement from a pharmacy. This can be used to cover the tooth or, in some cases, temporarily reattach the crown if it fits securely. Be sure to follow the product instructions carefully.
#5.Don’t Use Household Adhesives
It may be tempting to use superglue or another type of household adhesive to put the crown back on, but this is not safe. These substances are not designed for use in the mouth and can cause irritation, damage your tooth, or make it more difficult for your dentist to properly reattach the crown.
#6. Call Your Dentist Immediately
Contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. Even if you’re not in pain, it’s important to get the crown replaced or re-cemented quickly. Leaving the tooth exposed can increase the risk of decay, shifting of surrounding teeth, and even nerve damage. Let the office know if you’re in pain or if the crown is damaged or lost, so they can prioritize your visit appropriately.
Losing a dental crown is inconvenient but manageable. By retrieving the crown, protecting the exposed tooth, and contacting and seeing your dentist promptly, you can avoid complications and restore your smile quickly and safely.
About the Practice
Whether you’re getting crowns for the first time or are having trouble with your current appliance, the team at Troisi Dentistry is here to help you. If you’re seeking restoration, we can get you in and out the same day with crowns made in-office during one visit! Call us today to schedule your appointment at (757) 548-1611 or visit our website.