What do I do if a crown comes off?
Dealing with a dental crown that has come off can be an unsettling experience, but it’s important to remain calm and take the necessary steps to ensure your oral health is protected. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. When it comes off, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and the appropriate actions to take. In this article, we will discuss what you should do if a crown comes off and how to prevent it from happening again.
1. Assess the situation and collect the crown
The first thing you should do is assess the situation. If the crown is intact, carefully remove it from your mouth and place it in a safe place. It’s important to keep the crown clean and dry, as it may be needed for your dentist to reattach it. Avoid touching the inner surface of the crown with your fingers, as oils from your skin can interfere with the bond between the crown and your tooth.
2. Manage pain and discomfort
If you experience pain or discomfort due to the missing crown, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate the symptoms. However, it’s essential to avoid using any temporary filling materials or cements to fill the gap left by the crown, as these can cause further damage to your tooth.
3. Avoid eating and drinking
To prevent any damage to the exposed tooth and to avoid the risk of accidentally swallowing the crown, it’s best to avoid eating and drinking until you can see a dentist. Chewing can also lead to pain and potential damage to the tooth.
4. Schedule an appointment with your dentist
Contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. It’s important to have the crown reattached promptly to prevent any further damage to the tooth and to avoid complications such as infection or tooth decay.
5. Temporary measures
In the meantime, your dentist may provide you with a temporary crown or suggest other temporary measures to protect your tooth. These may include using dental cement, a temporary filling, or a tooth-colored filling material to cover the exposed tooth until your permanent crown can be reattached.
6. Prevent future occurrences
To prevent your dental crown from coming off in the future, follow these tips:
– Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
– Avoid eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can put excessive pressure on your crown.
– Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle when brushing around the crown area.
– Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
In conclusion, if a dental crown comes off, it’s important to handle the situation with care and seek professional help promptly. By following these steps and taking preventive measures, you can ensure your tooth remains healthy and your smile remains intact.
