What to do if a Crown Falls Off

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Ideally, crowns are meant to be a permanent solution, but occasionally, dental crowns do come off. If you find yourself in a situation where your dental crown has fallen off, your next steps are very important. Taking care and following dentist instructions will save you from worry and stress.

Save the Crown

First, don’t panic. Losing a crown doesn’t mean you’ll lose the tooth. Remember, the crown is simply a kind of prosthetic, and it can likely be put back in place by your dentist. If you happen to be eating at the time and bite down on the crown that’s come off, immediately take action to save the crown. This may mean spitting out the food in your mouth into a napkin. Whatever you do, don’t swallow, as you could accidentally swallow the crown along with the food.

Clean the Crown

Place the crown in a clean glass of water, either distilled or at least purified. Even better, place it in water inside a jar, where you can close the lid to avoid having it spill.

Inspect the Damage

Next, see if you can view the tooth. Crowns are often in the back of the mouth, so you or your family member may need to use a flashlight to see if there’s bleeding. If there is, pack the tooth with some first aid gauze. Don’t use cotton, as this will leave cotton fiber in the cavity, which will complicate the restoration.

If you have associated pain, consider taking an over-the-counter painkiller such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Only do this if your primary care physician has approved you for over-the-counter meds. Avoid aspirin, as this thins the blood and may increase bleeding.

Contact Your Dentist

Contact your dentist as soon as possible and let them know what happened. Chances are, your dentist in Grand Island, NE, will make room in their appointment book to have you come in the same day. If it’s not deemed to be an emergency, ask what you should do while you await your appointment date.

Having a crown fall off can be shocking, but it doesn’t mean your natural tooth is going to come out next. A dental crown in Grand Island, NE, can be put back in place in most cases. Contact us today to learn more.

Dental Crowns FAQ

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A dental crown is a cover that can protect a damaged tooth. If you undergo a root canal procedure, you’ll be given a dental crown to protect your tooth. Dental crowns can be cosmetic as well as structural. In this FAQ, we’ll tell you about dental crowns and what to expect if you’re the recipient of a dental crown. For more answers to your questions, speak with your dentist in Grand Island, NE.

What are dental crowns made of?

Dental crowns can be made from many materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal and resin. Some of these materials (like ceramic and resin) are tooth colored. Each material has its own unique qualities, like durability, appearance and longevity.

Do dental crowns look natural?

All dental crowns are made to be shaped like normal teeth, but not all dental crowns are colored like natural teeth. Dental crowns that are made from a tooth-colored material look very natural.

How long do dental crowns last?

Some dental crowns last 8 years, others last 10 or 15. Just how long your dental crown lasts depends on the material its made from. Resin, for example, is a budget material that doesn’t last very long. Metal can be more expensive, but generally lasts the longest.

How are dental crowns maintained?

To take care of your dental crown, brush it twice daily with non-abrasive toothpaste. Floss once daily. See your dentist twice a year for checkups. Watch for symptoms of a problem, like a receding gum or damage to the crown, and see the dentist if there’s a problem.

What is the purpose of a dental crown?

A dental crown is a cap placed on a damaged tooth to protect it. Dental crowns protect the tooth enamel and reinforce the tooth structurally. Dental crowns are used when a tooth is cracked, badly decayed, chipped or broken. Dental crowns also cover up stains and discolorations and make the tooth look natural and beautiful again.

For the right patient, a dental crown can make all the difference. Do you want to know more about dental crown installation in Grand Island NE? Call Gentle Dental Care to make an appointment and get answers to your questions.