what happens when crown falls out

2 min read 22-12-2024

A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. While crowns are designed to be durable, sometimes they can fall out. Understanding what happens when this occurs and the necessary steps to take is crucial for maintaining your oral health.

Understanding Why Crowns Fall Out

Several factors can contribute to a crown falling out. These include:

Decay: Untreated decay underneath the crown can weaken the tooth's structure, leading to crown displacement.
Trauma: A significant blow to the mouth can dislodge a crown. Sports injuries or accidents are common causes.
Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to gum disease, weakening the foundation supporting the crown.
Cement failure: The cement holding the crown in place can degrade over time, loosening the fit.
Wear and tear: Years of chewing and biting can gradually weaken the crown's bond with the tooth.
Pre-existing cracks: If the underlying tooth had pre-existing cracks, these can propagate, leading to crown failure.

Immediate Actions After Crown Dislodgement

If your crown falls out, act quickly to prevent further damage and complications.

1. Locate the Crown

Carefully search for the crown. If found, rinse it thoroughly with water and gently clean off any debris. Do not use abrasive cleaners or bleach.

2. Examine the Tooth

Inspect the tooth beneath the crown. If possible, gently try to place the crown back on the tooth. You may use a thin layer of toothpaste or denture adhesive as a temporary fix.

Important: If the tooth feels loose or sensitive, or if there's significant pain, avoid pushing the crown back on. This can further damage the already compromised structure.

3. Protect the Tooth

If you can't replace the crown, cover the exposed tooth with a small piece of wax from a wax-based dental floss (not paraffin). This helps protect the tooth from further damage or debris.

4. Contact Your Dentist

Schedule an immediate appointment with your dentist. Do not delay, as the longer the tooth is exposed, the greater the risk of infection or further damage.

What Your Dentist Will Do

Your dentist will evaluate the situation and recommend the best course of action. This might involve:

Re-cementing the crown: If the tooth is stable and the crown is in good condition, your dentist may simply re-cement it.
Crown repair or replacement: If the crown is damaged or the tooth is compromised, a new crown may be needed.
Root canal: In cases of severe decay or infection, a root canal might be necessary to save the tooth.
Tooth extraction: In rare cases, if the tooth is too damaged, extraction might be the only option.

Preventing Crown Loss

Maintaining good oral hygiene is paramount to prevent crown loss. This includes:

Brushing twice daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Flossing daily: Remove food particles and plaque from between teeth.
Regular dental checkups: Schedule routine checkups and professional cleanings.
Avoiding hard foods: Limit consumption of excessively hard foods that can put stress on the crown.
Wearing a mouthguard: Protect your teeth during contact sports.

Conclusion

Losing a dental crown is a serious event requiring prompt attention. By following the steps outlined above and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can minimize the risks and ensure the longevity of your dental restorations. Remember, contacting your dentist immediately is the most crucial step to preserve your oral health and prevent further complications. Ignoring a fallen crown can lead to irreversible damage to the tooth, requiring more extensive and costly treatments. Don't hesitate to seek professional help; your dental health is worth it.