What to Do When Your Dental Crown Falls Off: A Quick Guide

Have you ever had a dental crown fall off unexpectedly? It’s not only inconvenient, but it can also be a little alarming, especially if you’re unsure about how to handle the situation. I’ve been there myself, and I can understand how frustrating it can be. But don’t worry! In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what you should do if a dental crown falls off, and share some personal insights and tips to make the process as smooth as possible. Whether it’s a sudden accident or the result of wear and tear, there’s no need to panic.

Immediate Actions to Take When a Dental Crown Falls Off

The first thing to remember is: don’t panic. A crown falling off doesn’t usually mean there’s a serious issue, but it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage or discomfort. Here’s what I did when my dental crown fell off:

1. Inspect the Crown: Carefully remove the crown from your mouth. If you can find it, examine it for any visible damage, such as cracks or chips. This can help your dentist assess whether it can be re-cemented or needs to be replaced.
2. Check the Tooth: Look at the tooth that had the crown. Is it in good condition, or is there any visible decay or damage? If the tooth underneath is exposed, you might want to cover it temporarily with dental wax or even sugar-free gum to prevent sensitivity or discomfort.
3. Clean the Crown and Tooth: Gently rinse both the crown and the exposed tooth with warm water. Avoid using soap or chemicals, as this can damage the crown. If you have toothpaste, you can gently clean the crown with it to remove any debris or dirt.
4. Avoid Eating on the Affected Side: Until you can see your dentist, try to avoid chewing on the side where the crown fell off. This will help prevent further damage to your tooth or the crown.

Temporary Fixes for a Dental Crown

If you’re unable to see a dentist right away, you might want to try a temporary fix. When my dental crown fell off, I was in a rush and needed a quick solution to get me through the day. Here’s what worked for me:

1. Use Temporary Dental Cement: Over-the-counter temporary dental cement is available at most drugstores. If the crown is still intact, you can apply a small amount of this cement to the inside of the crown and place it back onto your tooth. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully. This fix is not permanent, but it can hold the crown in place until you can see your dentist.
2. Dental Wax: If you don’t have access to dental cement, dental wax can provide a temporary seal to protect your exposed tooth. I used wax in the past to cover the area until I could make an appointment with my dentist. Just make sure the wax is clean, and try to avoid chewing on it.

Seeing Your Dentist: What to Expect

After taking immediate action and using a temporary fix, the next step is to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. I remember feeling anxious about going in, but my dentist assured me that it was a common issue. Here’s what you can expect when you visit the dentist:

1. Examination: Your dentist will begin by thoroughly examining both the tooth and the crown. They will assess whether the crown can be reattached or if a new one is needed. In my case, my dentist was able to re-cement my crown with a strong adhesive.
2. Cleaning and Preparation: If your dentist decides to reattach the crown, they will clean both the crown and the tooth. This step is important to ensure a strong bond. If the tooth has suffered any decay or damage, they may need to address that first.
3. Cementing the Crown: After cleaning, your dentist will carefully place the crown back on your tooth and secure it with a special dental adhesive. Once the crown is properly positioned, your dentist will make sure it fits comfortably and doesn’t interfere with your bite.
4. Replacement if Necessary: If the crown cannot be reattached, your dentist will discuss options for replacing it. I’ve been in situations where my crown had to be replaced, and my dentist was very clear about the costs and time required for making a new one.

Preventing Future Dental Crown Issues

After experiencing my crown fall off, I made sure to take steps to prevent it from happening again. Here are some tips that helped me maintain my dental work:

1. Regular Dental Checkups: One of the most important things you can do is schedule regular dental checkups. Your dentist will check the condition of your crowns and other dental work to make sure everything is in good shape. I’ve found that routine visits to the dentist have saved me from future problems.
2. Avoid Hard Foods: While dental crowns are durable, they are not indestructible. I avoid biting into hard foods like nuts or ice, which can put excessive pressure on my crowns.
3. Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly are essential for maintaining the longevity of your crown. I make sure to brush twice a day and floss once, especially around the area where the crown sits, to keep it clean and healthy.

Get Professional Help from Dentistry Toothtruth

If you’ve experienced a dental crown falling off or need assistance with any dental concerns, I highly recommend visiting Dentistry Toothtruth. Their expert team can help you find the right clinic for all your dental needs, whether it’s for re-cementing a crown or replacing it altogether. Don’t wait for your dental crown to become a bigger issue—take action now and get the care you need to keep your smile healthy and bright.