What to Do if Your Dental Crown Accidentally Falls Off

When comparing a knocked-out tooth to a dental crown in Weyauwega that has fallen off, there’s no question that the former is far more time-sensitive than the latter. However, a restoration that is no longer firmly in place is nothing to disregard. Instead, if you are facing this type of situation, you should contact your dentist’s office immediately to make an emergency appointment. In the meantime, what can you do at home? A local expert sheds light on the topic, offering suggested tips to minimize the potential for further damage while you wait.

Consider if It’s a Real Emergency

Is a lost crown considered a true dental emergency? In theory, yes, but it may not be necessary to see your dentist the same day your restoration falls off. To understand whether you should jump in the car right away or wait it out at home, make sure to inspect the exposed tooth as well as the crown. If any sharp edges can damage your soft tissues, the crown is not fully detached, or you’re experiencing severe pain, explain this to your dental team when calling. They will work to schedule an appointment as quickly as possible.

If the crown comes off clean, and you’re experiencing little to no pain at all, you may be able to use a temporary dental adhesive to hold the crown in place until you can see your dentist for an appointment.

Avoid Chewing on the Side with the Compromised Crown

If your crown falls off, this means your tooth is now exposed and highly vulnerable. Whether you can secure the restoration back into place using an adhesive, it is best if you avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, if possible. This will prevent additional pressure from being placed on the tooth as well as minimize the potential for food particles to adhere to your weakened tooth.

It is also strongly advised that you avoid eating sticky or chewy foods as well as those that are hot or cold. Your tooth will be highly sensitive, which can make certain items unbearable to consume (i.e., coffee, ice cream).

Be Gentle with Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Just because your restoration comes off doesn’t mean you should stop with your oral hygiene routine. Instead, you will need to be mindful (and gentle) when brushing and flossing. Since your exposed tooth is likely very sensitive, make sure to brush around the area with ease and inspect the tooth to make sure there is no additional damage to it or the tissue.

Step-By-Step Process

If you want a more definitive guide as to what you should do when a crown falls off, remember the following:

1. Gently clean the exposed tooth as well as the crown, being careful not to damage either
2. Attempt to reattach the crown to your tooth but be sure to identify how it should properly fit in your mouth before reinserting, as you could damage nearby teeth
3. Use a dental adhesive or small bit of toothpaste to secure the crown in place, if possible

The most important step to remember is to call your dentist in Weyauwega and alert them to the situation. In the meantime, make sure to follow these tips to keep your smile free from additional harm.

About the Author
Dr. William Twohig has dedicated the last 20 of his 40 years of practicing dentistry searching for alternative methods to offer his patients. Offering individuals safer, more natural-looking, restorative solutions, he and his team can quickly repair and restore damaged smiles with the help of dental crowns in Weyauwega. Even if one of these artificial teeth suddenly falls off, Dr. Twohig is equipped to treat the problem and have patients on their way feeling more confident about their smiles. If you have had a dental crown come off, visit our website or call (920) 867-3101.