Crowns can thrive for a decade or longer, but they don’t last forever. It’s not unusual for restorations to fall off over time. If you’ve lost a dental crown, don’t panic! Here’s what you should do until you see an emergency dentist.
A Lost Crown is a Dental Emergency
Although a lost crown isn’t as serious as a knocked-out or broken tooth, it is still a dental emergency. Time is of the utmost importance because your tooth will be vulnerable to bacteria, sensitivity, and damage without the protection of a crown. It’s best to contact your emergency dentist right away for an appointment. If you’re not having any pain, you can wait for their next availability, but you must take precautions to protect your tooth in the meantime.
Managing a Lost Crown at Home
While you wait for your appointment, there are many things you can do at home to make a stressful situation easier:
- Rinse Your Mouth with Salt Water: Salt water is a natural antiseptic to kill harmful bacteria. It also reduces pain and inflammation.
- Leave the Repairs for Professionals: Don’t use glue or other adhesives because they can be toxic or cause allergic reactions. You can also trap bacteria underneath the crown, which can result in decay or infections.
- Keep Your Mouth Clean: Step up your oral hygiene routine. Brush after every meal, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouth rinse.
- Watch What You Eat: Eat soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Manage Any Pain: Take an over-the-counter pain reliever for any discomfort.
- Use Toothpaste for a Temporary Fix: Apply a small dab of toothpaste to your crown to create a temporary seal to hold it in place. It is not intended to be used as a long-term solution.
Treating a Lost Dental Crown
Your dentist will get you into the office quickly to examine your mouth. If your crown is relatively new and there’s no damage to your underlying tooth, they may cement your crown back in place. If your restoration is older, or your tooth has been compromised by decay or infection, you may require additional treatments before being fitted with a new crown.
A lost crown doesn’t have to ruin your day. Your emergency dentist will provide the prompt care you need to ensure your tooth is protected.
About Dr. Hannah Corcoran
Dr. Corcoran earned her dental degree from The Ohio State University and has continued her education in many specialties, like restorative dentistry, dermal fillers, and Kybella. She is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Southern Ohio Dental Association. Request an appointment through her website or call (740) 835-4698.