Dental crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but they are not indestructible. Over time, normal wear and tear, decay, trauma, or weakened dental cement can cause a crown to become loose or fall off completely. While losing a dental crown can be alarming, taking the right steps can help protect your tooth and improve the chances of a successful repair.
If your crown comes off, here’s what you should do.
Retrieve and Inspect the Crown
The first thing to do is locate the crown and remove it from your mouth if it has become loose. This helps prevent accidentally swallowing or damaging it further.
Carefully inspect the crown for any visible cracks, chips, or other damage. Even if it appears intact, avoid attempting to permanently reattach it yourself.
Place the crown in a clean container and bring it with you to your dental appointment. In some cases, your dentist may be able to reuse the original crown.
Protect the Exposed Tooth
When a crown falls off, the tooth underneath is left exposed and may become sensitive to temperature changes, pressure, or certain foods.
To protect the tooth:
- Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth.
- Stay away from sticky or hard foods.
- Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages.
- Maintain gentle brushing and flossing around the area.
If the exposed tooth has sharp edges or causes discomfort, over-the-counter dental cement may provide temporary protection until you can see your dentist. However, this is only a short-term solution and should not replace professional treatment.
Contact Your Dentist Promptly
A lost crown is not usually a life-threatening emergency, but it should be addressed as soon as possible. The longer the tooth remains uncovered, the greater the risk of damage, sensitivity, decay, or shifting.
When you call your dentist, explain what happened and describe any symptoms you are experiencing. If you are in pain or the tooth is highly sensitive, your dental team may recommend an earlier appointment.
What Happens at the Dental Office?
Your dentist will examine both the crown and the underlying tooth to determine the best course of action.
Depending on the situation, treatment may involve:
- Recementing the existing crown.
- Repairing a damaged crown.
- Creating a new crown.
- Treating decay or damage beneath the crown.
The appropriate solution will depend on the condition of the tooth and restoration.
Although losing a dental crown can be inconvenient, prompt action can help prevent more serious problems. By saving the crown, protecting the exposed tooth, and scheduling a dental visit as soon as possible, you can minimize complications and restore your smile quickly. Acting early often increases the likelihood of a simple and successful repair.
About the Practice
Are you experiencing a dental emergency? If so, we would like to help at Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry of The Keys. Don’t let pain or nerves keep you away – we have multiple forms of sedation available. Our honest dentists are dedicated to recommending only what you need, and we use advanced technology to improve your experience. Don’t delay if you’re in pain; book online or call our Big Pine Key office at (305) 680-1553.