Dental Emergencies: Crown Falls Out

Dental Emergencies: Crown Falls Out

Dental Emergencies: Crown Falls Out

While dental crowns are built to last, it doesn’t mean they cannot fall out or be pulled out prematurely. This is especially true if you enjoy sticky foods like taffy or caramel. While a crown usually falls out due to adhesive failing, it can also occur if there is any enamel decay underneath the crown. Losing a crown unexpectedly can be quite alarming! That’s why we’ve rounded up each step you should take when and if this occurs so you can be prepared.

  1. Remove the crown

After discovering that your crown has fallen off, remove it from your mouth. This will help prevent you from accidentally breathing in or swallowing the crown. If you do accidentally swallow the crown, no need to panic — it typically passes without issue. However, if you accidentally breathe in the crown it could get stuck in your lungs and cause complications. This is uncommon, however, it is still best to remove the crown from your mouth the prevent it altogether. 

  1. Call your dentist

Typically, your dentist has time for emergency dental needs set aside on their calendar each week already. Calling them as soon as you’ve discovered your crown has fallen out will hopefully secure you one of those appointments and protect the health of your tooth.

  1. Use a temporary filling

If your crown falls out, your main concern should be protecting your tooth. The tooth underneath the crown is most likely very sore and hurting, since it no longer has the crown to protect it. If the crown is still intact, you can slip it back over the tooth until your dentist can see you. First, you will need to clean out the crown. Next, you will need to coat it with dental cement, which can be found at most drugstores. This will protect the tooth from bacteria entering and hold the crown in place. If the crown is not intact and unable to be temporarily reattached, you can also purchase dental wax to temporarily coat and protect your tooth.

  1. Get your crown reattached or replaced

If your crown is still in good shape, the dentist may be able to reattach it. However, your dentist might elect to replace the crown altogether if there is too much damage.

Whether or not you need a crown replaced or reattached, our dental professionals are here to help! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.