What to Do if You Accidentally Swallow a Crown or Filling

What Should You Do If You Swallow a Dental Crown or Filling?

Accidentally swallowing a dental crown or filling can be an alarming experience, but it’s not as uncommon as you might think. Whether it’s a gold, porcelain, or composite crown, or a simple filling that comes loose, the situation can feel confusing and unsettling. You might wonder, “What now?” Don’t worry! I’ve been through this myself and learned a lot along the way. In this article, I’ll walk you through the steps you should take if this happens, how to stay calm, and what actions will help you resolve the issue quickly and safely.

1. Don’t Panic—It Happens More Often Than You Think

The first thing to remember is that this is a fairly common occurrence. If you've swallowed a crown or filling, you’re definitely not alone. Many people have experienced the same thing, and it’s usually not something to be too worried about. In my own case, I had a porcelain crown come loose while eating dinner—before I even realized it, I accidentally swallowed it. The initial panic quickly faded once I reminded myself that it’s unlikely to cause any harm.

Dental crowns and fillings are designed to be durable, and most of the time, they pass through the digestive system without causing any issues. Of course, you should still take some immediate steps to ensure that everything goes smoothly, but don’t freak out! The human body is remarkably good at handling small foreign objects.

2. Assess the Situation

Now that the immediate panic has subsided, it’s time to assess the situation. Here are some things to consider:

Size and Type of Object: Crowns and fillings come in many materials, such as gold, porcelain, or composite resin. While porcelain crowns might be more fragile, gold ones are sturdier. Fillings, on the other hand, are typically smaller. Knowing the size and material can help in determining the risk.
Were You Able to Swallow the Object? Sometimes, the crown or filling might get stuck in your throat temporarily. If it’s not fully swallowed, try to remain calm and carefully drink some water to help move it down. If it’s stuck in your throat, don’t force it out, as that could cause choking.
Any Discomfort? If you experience any pain or difficulty breathing, that’s when you should seek medical attention immediately.

3. How to Monitor for Problems

Most of the time, swallowing a crown or filling won’t cause you any significant issues. However, it’s a good idea to monitor yourself for any signs of discomfort or complications. Here’s what to look out for:

Digestive Discomfort: While most crowns and fillings are small and will pass through your digestive tract without any issues, you might experience some mild discomfort. If you notice bloating, cramping, or nausea that doesn’t go away, it could indicate that the object is stuck somewhere in your digestive system.
Respiratory Problems: If you feel like you’re choking, having difficulty breathing, or if you start to cough excessively, this could be a sign that the object has gotten stuck in your airway. Seek medical help immediately if this happens.
Changes in Stool: Sometimes, if a filling or crown passes through the digestive system, you might find it in your stool after a day or two. This doesn’t happen often, but it’s always worth keeping an eye on your next few bowel movements.

4. When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re feeling anxious or unsure about the situation, it’s always best to consult with a dental professional or your doctor. Here are a few instances when you should seek help:

Severe Pain: If you feel intense abdominal pain, chest discomfort, or difficulty swallowing, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Choking: If you’re unable to breathe or if the object feels stuck in your throat, go to the emergency room right away.
If the Object Doesn’t Pass: In rare cases, a filling or crown might not pass through your digestive tract as it should. If it’s been several days and you’re still feeling discomfort, it’s a good idea to see your doctor for an X-ray to make sure the object hasn’t gotten stuck in your intestines.

5. Can You Prevent It from Happening Again?

Now that you’ve gone through the immediate steps, you may be wondering if there’s anything you can do to prevent this from happening again. While it's impossible to entirely eliminate the risk of swallowing a dental crown or filling, here are a few tips that might help:

Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing on hard or sticky foods can sometimes dislodge crowns or fillings. It’s important to chew carefully, especially if you have a crown or filling in place.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Make sure to schedule regular visits to your dentist to keep an eye on the condition of your dental work. A loose crown or filling can be addressed before it causes an accident.
Use a Night Guard: If you grind your teeth, this can cause dental crowns or fillings to become loose. A night guard can help prevent this from happening while you sleep.

6. When to Replace the Crown or Filling

If you’ve swallowed a dental crown or filling, chances are it’s time for a replacement. You’ll need to visit your dentist to have the tooth examined and determine the best course of action. In most cases, they’ll take an X-ray to ensure the tooth structure is intact, and you may need a new crown or filling placed. If the tooth has suffered damage, your dentist will discuss the available treatment options with you.

In my case, after swallowing my porcelain crown, I had to go in for a quick replacement. Thankfully, it was a straightforward process, and I was back to eating normally in no time!

Final Thoughts on Swallowing a Crown or Filling

Swallowing a dental crown or filling might seem alarming, but it’s typically a manageable situation. By following the steps outlined above, you can stay calm, monitor for complications, and seek professional care if necessary. Remember, while it’s not something you want to happen, it’s a fairly common incident, and you’ll be just fine. Keep an eye on your symptoms, and don't hesitate to contact a healthcare professional if needed.

If you ever find yourself in need of professional dental services or assistance, be sure to visit our website, Dentistry Toothtruth, where you can find top-rated clinics and expert advice for your dental needs.