A dental crown is designed to be a long-term solution for restoring the shape, strength, and appearance of a damaged tooth. However, even the most well-made crown can sometimes come loose or fall out entirely. Whether it happens while you eat, brush your teeth, or unexpectedly during the day, losing a crown can be alarming. Knowing what steps to take can make the difference between a quick, simple fix and a more complicated dental problem. Our team at Williamsburg Dental is here to help you if you lose a crown in Broomall, PA.
Steps to Take After A Crown Falls Out
Did your crown just fall out of your mouth? Follow these steps to protect your mouth and ensure you get a new restoration.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first and most important thing to do is to stay calm. A crown falling out needs prompt attention, but take a moment to carefully check your mouth. If you can locate the crown, retrieve it and gently rinse it with warm water to remove any debris. Avoid scrubbing or using harsh cleaners, as your dentist may be able to reattach it.
You should also inspect the exposed tooth. In most cases, you’ll see part of your natural tooth structure underneath, which may look smaller or slightly discolored. It’s normal to experience mild sensitivity to air or temperature. But if you notice pain, bleeding, or jagged edges, protect the area until you can see your dentist.
Keep the Area Clean and Protected
Once the crown has fallen off, you want to keep your mouth clean to prevent infection or further damage. Brush gently around the affected tooth using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and rinse with warm salt water to reduce bacteria. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until the crown is replaced or repaired.
If the exposed tooth feels sensitive or uncomfortable, you can apply a small amount of dental wax or temporary dental cement, available at most pharmacies, to cover it. This acts as a short-term barrier against temperature changes and pressure. Be sure not to force the crown back onto your tooth unless your dentist has instructed you to do so, as doing it incorrectly could damage both the crown and the tooth.
Save the Crown and Bring It to Your Dentist
If you still have the crown, store it safely in a clean container and bring it with you to your dental appointment. In many cases, if the crown is still in good condition and the tooth structure underneath hasn’t changed significantly, we can simply re-cement it in place.
But if the crown has become damaged or the tooth has decayed underneath, our dentist may recommend a replacement. This decision depends on the condition of your natural tooth, the material of the crown, and how long you’ve had it.
Schedule a Dental Appointment
Even if your tooth doesn’t hurt, you want to contact our office right away. Waiting too long can cause more problems, like tooth decay, teeth shifting, or irritation around the area. Most dental offices try to see patients quickly for crown issues because early treatment can often prevent bigger procedures later.
During your appointment, the dentist will check both the crown and the tooth underneath. If the crown still fits well and is in good shape, it can usually be put back in place during the same visit. If it doesn’t fit or is damaged, the dentist may take impressions to make a new crown. In the meantime, you might get a temporary crown to protect your tooth until the new one is ready.
Preventing Future Crown Failures
After your crown has been repaired or replaced, taking a few simple steps can help it last longer and prevent future problems. Avoid chewing hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy, and stay away from sticky foods like caramel or taffy that can pull on the crown and loosen it. Being careful about what you eat can keep your crown secure and protect your natural tooth underneath.
Keep up with good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing carefully around your crown. This removes plaque and bacteria that can cause decay or gum irritation near the crown. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle flossing helps prevent damage to both your crown and surrounding teeth.
Regular dental visits are also important. Our dentist can check your crown and make sure it is still in good shape. If you grind or clench your teeth at night, wearing a nightguard can protect your crown and other dental work from unnecessary wear or damage. Following these steps can help your crown last many years and keep your smile healthy.
Care for Your Dental Crown
At Williamsburg Dental, we are dedicated to helping you preserve your oral health. A dental crown could help protect your tooth from further damage, but only with proper care. Don’t hesitate to reach out if your crown comes loose or falls off. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and safeguard your smile.