A dental crown plays an essential role in restorative dentistry. It offers protection and strength for a restored tooth. As per the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, there are over 15 million people in the US who have crowns or bridges to replace missing or damaged teeth. This shows how prevalent a dental crown procedure is.
When a crown falls off unexpectedly, it can cause you distress. It’s essential for you to not panic and understand how to manage it. Read on to explore the steps you can take in case your crown falls off.
Common Reasons for a Dislodged Crown
There are several reasons why a crown may fall off:
- Improper Fit: If the crown was not fitted correctly initially, it might not stick properly. At times, the amount of cement used to fix the crown may be inadequate, causing it to fall off.
- Tooth Decay: Decay under the crown can weaken the tooth. This can lead to the crown loosening, causing it to fall off.
- Cement Breakdown: Over time, the cement holding the crown in place may wear down. This can dislodge the crown.
- Eating Hard Foods: Chewing on hard or sticky foods may loosen the crown.
Signs Your Crown May Be Loose
Before a crown falls off, there are often warning signs, such as:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
- A feeling of looseness when chewing.
- Discomfort or pain in the crowned tooth.
If any of these signs are present, you should visit the dentist promptly.
Immediate Steps That You Can Take When a Crown Falls Off
If your crown falls off, follow these immediate steps to protect your tooth:
1. Retrieve the Crown
If the crown falls out, carefully retrieve it. Rinse the dislodged crown with warm water to remove any debris. Avoid scrubbing it, as this could damage the crown.
2. Inspect the Tooth
Examine the exposed tooth. If there’s a noticeable danger or your tooth is very sensitive, contact your dentist immediately.
3. Protect the Tooth
Until you can see your dentist, it’s important to protect the exposed tooth from breakage. Avoid biting or chewing from that side. Never use agents like superglue. It is harmful and can cause great damage.
4. Avoid Certain Foods
Refrain from eating sticky foods that could exacerbate the issue. Stick to soft foods until the crown can be properly reattached.
What to Expect at the Dentist’s Office?
When you consult with a dentist, they will assess the situation to determine the best course of action. The treatment will depend on the state of the tooth and the crown.
1. Re-cementing the Crown
If the crown falls off due to minor issues, such as weakened cement, it can simply be reattached. Your dentist will clean the crown and tooth and reattach the crown with new dental cement.
2. Creating a New Crown
If the crown or tooth is damaged, a new crown might be necessary. This process could involve taking new impressions of your tooth. A temporary crown will be put in while the new one is being fabricated.
3. Treating Decay or Damage
If decay is found under the crown, it will need to be treated before a new crown can be placed. This could involve filling the cavity or, in severe cases, performing a root canal.
Tips for Maintaining Your Dental Crown
To avoid future instances where a crown falls off, consider these preventive measures:
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Flossing and brushing your teeth twice in a day can prevent decay from developing under your crown. Using a fluoride-based toothpaste to strengthen your teeth can be helpful, and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash.
2. Avoid Hard Foods
Chewing on hard candies, ice, or sticky foods like caramel can put undue stress on your crown. Stick to foods that are gentler on your dental work.
3. Regular Dental Check-ups
Routine visits to the dentist may help you identify any potential issues with your crown. Your dentist can check the crown’s fit and ensure it remains securely in place.
4. Address Grinding Issues
If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, it can cause your crown to fall off. You can also wear a nightguard to protect your crown.
Dental Emergencies Related to Crown Loss
While a crown falling off is not always an emergency, certain situations warrant immediate attention:
- Severe Pain: If you experience severe pain, it could indicate that the underlying tooth is infected.
- Bleeding: Persistent bleeding from the exposed tooth is a sign that something is wrong and requires prompt dental care.
Ignoring these symptoms may progress to severe dental issues. Infections may spread beyond the tooth.
Conclusion
If your crown falls off, taking immediate action is vital to protect your tooth and prevent further complications. By understanding the causes, following the recommended steps, and seeking timely dental care, you can ensure that your dental crown is preserved.
Hopkins Family Dentistry is a community-oriented dental clinic dedicated to providing the best standards of dental care to you and your family. Our experts specialize in all types of dental solutions, including same-day crowns.
Contact us today or book a consultation!
Our address: 1919 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
Phone: 952.935.2121
