If you have a dental crown, know that despite being made from incredibly durable materials, they can still be damaged and the cement that’s holding them to your affected tooth, eroded. With time, the adhesive can also wear down naturally. Even though it may come as a shock to you in the moment, dental crowns falling off teeth, getting lost, or becoming damaged aren’t incredibly uncommon dental emergencies. Read below to learn how you can address them and all of the reasons why this mishap can occur.
What Should You Do if Your Crown Falls Out?
If your crown has either become dislodged or fallen out of your mouth, the first step to take is to try to find it. When you retrieve your restoration, gently rinse it off with water and store it in a container to bring to your emergency dental appointment.
Next, you’ll need to contact the nearest emergency dentist and plan a visit. While you may experience some slight sensitivity, a lost crown isn’t a high priority situation, so it may be a day or two before you’re able to get in. While you’re on the phone with the dental office, they’ll also be able to provide you with first aid guidance, including whether it’s safe to re-place the crown onto your tooth temporarily with toothpaste and how to ease your sensitivity.
After you receive an emergency examination from your dentist, they’ll be able to let you know whether you need to have your crown replaced or if it can be adhered back onto your tooth.
What You Shouldn’t Do if Your Crown Falls Out
Crowns often fall off your tooth and into your mouth, making them easy to swallow. Try to be mindful to avoid doing this, as it could seal your fate that you’ll need to replace the crown. Some other steps to take if your crown is missing include:
- Don’t eat sticky, hard, chewy, or crunchy foods.
- Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the missing crown.
- Be extra gentle while brushing around your tooth with the missing crown.
Reasons Why Dental Crowns Fall Out
Dental crowns can fall out for a variety of reasons, some of which can be prevented! Here’s a short list of what could cause a dental crown to become dislodged:
- Improper fit
- Dissolved cement
- Teeth grinding
- Weakened or decayed tooth underneath
- Sticky foods cause it to dislodge
While a missing crown can’t always be prevented, taking steps like using alcohol-free mouthwash and avoiding chewing excessively sticky foods on the side of your mouth with your restoration can make a big difference in extending its lifespan. In any case, when you find yourself dealing with the unexpected, know that you can always count on your emergency dentist to help you handle it.
About the Author
Dr. Arash Vahid is a highly skilled dentist with years of experience. He achieved his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor as well as his Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency through NYU College of Dentistry. His dedication to providing his patients with the best quality of care is shown not just through his attentive demeanor, but also in the materials and technology he uses in his practice. For questions or to schedule an emergency appointment, visit AV Dental Associates of Ramsey’s website or call 201-962-8452.