Having a dental crown fall off can be both unexpected and worrisome. It is important to act quickly and take the right steps to ensure your dental health remains intact. In this article, we will provide guidance on what to do if your dental crown falls off so you can make sure you get the best treatment possible. Whether it’s taking a look at it yourself or making an appointment with your dentist, there are several options available.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a restorative dental procedure used to repair damaged teeth. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped "cap" that covers and encases the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line. Dental crowns are used to restore damaged teeth, enhance the appearance of teeth, and provide strength and support for weakened or broken teeth.

Dental crowns can be made from several different materials, including porcelain, metal alloys, ceramic, or acrylic resin. The type of material chosen will depend on the tooth's location and how it will be used in your mouth - either for cosmetic reasons or to function as part of your bite. Your dentist will work with you to select a material that best suits your needs and budget. Once placed, crowns typically last between 5-15 years with proper care and maintenance.

Signs of a Loose Crown

A loose crown may be a minor dental issue, but it's still important to take the necessary steps to fix it. A crown is a custom-fitted cap that covers and protects the entire visible portion of the tooth. When a crown becomes loose, it can cause pain and other issues.

 It’s easy to detect if you have a loose crown—common signs and symptoms include pain when chewing, difficulty biting down on food, or sensitivity to hot or cold drinks. If these issues arise, your crown could be at fault. In addition to discomfort, leaving a loose crown in place for too long can lead to further damage, such as decay around the edges of your tooth where the cement has dislodged.

If you suspect you may have a loose crown, don't hesitate to get an appointment with your dentist immediately.

Emergency Care Options

Having a crown fall off can be a distressing experience. It is important to understand the available options for emergency care when this happens, so you can take action quickly and effectively.

One option is to seek out immediate treatment from your regular dentist. You may be able to have the crown re-cemented if it has not been damaged and the underlying tooth structure is still intact. If the underlying tooth structure has deteriorated, your dentist will likely recommend a new crown or bridge replacement instead of just re-cementing the existing one.

Temporary Solutions

When a crown falls off of your tooth, it can be an uncomfortable and stressful experience. Luckily, there are a few temporary solutions that can help you get through the situation until you are able to see a dentist for a permanent repair.

The most common type of temporary solution is dental cement, which helps fill in gaps between the crown and the tooth. It is available at any pharmacy or convenience store, and it is easy to apply. Additionally, you should avoid eating hard food or anything that requires significant chewing as this could cause further damage to the area. If you do not feel comfortable using dental cement, another option is to use denture adhesive cream or wax to temporarily hold the crown in place. 

Evaluation and Treatment at the Dentist

When evaluating a dislodged crown, your dentist will first assess the state of the natural tooth underneath it and look for any underlying problems that could have caused it to become loose. If needed, they may take an X-ray of the affected area to get an even better view. After ruling out any potential issues with the tooth itself, they can then determine if and how a new crown should be placed back on it. This might involve additional treatments such as a root canal or deep cleaning prior to putting on another crown.

Prevention Tips

Maintaining a healthy smile is an important part of overall wellness. A tooth crown can help restore the strength and integrity of a damaged or decayed tooth. However, if proper care is not taken after having the crown placed, it can cause your crown to fall off. To ensure that your crown stays in place for many years to come, here are some prevention tips:  

• Brushing and flossing regularly are vital for keeping any type of dental work clean and strong. Make sure you brush twice per day with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste, paying special attention to where the crown meets the gum line.

• Flossing daily will also help remove plaque buildup between teeth where the crown fits in order to keep it securely adhered. 

• Visiting your dentist regularly is also essential when it comes to preventing a falling-off crown. 

In conclusion, a dental crown falling off is a dental issue that requires quick and immediate attention. If you find yourself with a lost or broken crown, contact your dentist right away to ensure the best outcome for your oral health. At Coral West Dental, we have experienced professionals who understand how to properly and quickly address any dental emergency. Our team of dentists can restore your smile in no time, allowing you to get back to normal life without worrying about embarrassing gaps or blemishes in your teeth.