Losing a dental crown can be an alarming experience, but occasionally it does happen. The good news is that in some cases, it can be an easy fix at your dentist’s office. If yours has fallen out, don’t panic. Here’s what you should do to protect your tooth and crown until you can be seen by your emergency dentist.
Step One: Contact Your Dentist
The first thing you should do if you lose your dental crown is to contact your dentist for further instructions. You will need to come in soon for an emergency appointment, but depending on the circumstances you may be able to wait a day or two to be seen. Your dental team can determine this when you call and will ensure that you are treated as soon as possible.
Step Two: Keep Your Crown Safe
Even if your crown breaks into multiple pieces, be sure to save them and bring them with you to the dentist. If there is no way to fix them, you will need to have a new crown made, but your dentist will make this determination at your appointment.
Step Three: See if Your Crown Still Fits
If your crown is still in one piece, you may be able to temporarily reattach it. First, brush your teeth well. Then, clean the crown with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. If your tooth is still in good condition, you can see if the crown will go back on, but don’t force it in place if it doesn’t.
Step Four: Reattach Your Crown
If your dentist gives you the green light, you can temporarily reattach your crown with temporary dental cement available at most pharmacies. Please be aware that this type of product was not meant as a permanent solution, and you should still see your dentist to have your crown reattached and the underlying tooth evaluated.
Step Five: Maintaining Your Crown
Once your dentist reattaches your crown, it’s important to take good care of it. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Don’t forget to visit your dentist twice a year for your regular, biannual exam and cleaning, and if you notice any changes in your crown or the tooth underneath, don’t wait until your regular appointment to bring it up.
Remember, accidents will happen and losing your crown is no reason to panic. Should it happen to you, stay calm, follow the steps above, and be patient. Your smile will look regal again before you know it!
About Dr. Metzger
Dr. Leslie Metzger earned her dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry and her bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. She is a current member of the American Dental Association and Michigan Dental Association and has attended cosmetic dentistry programs at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.
Dr. Metzger is also a member of the American Association of Cosmetic Dentists, the American Dental Society, and the Michigan Dental Society (MDA) where she has been appointed to the MDA’s Continuing Education Committee. She is the founder and chairperson of the OCDS’s Children’s Dental Health Month Program and the recipient of the prestigious Michigan Dental Association Public Relations Award.
To schedule an emergency appointment at Monet Aesthetic Dentistry, please call us directly for faster care, at 248-476-3410.