what to do if temporary crown comes off

Natashya

3 min read

·

23-12-2024

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Losing your temporary crown can be unsettling. But don't panic! While it's crucial to get it replaced promptly, there are steps you can take to manage the situation until you can see your dentist. This article will guide you through what to do if your temporary crown comes off, offering solutions and highlighting what to avoid.

Understanding Temporary Crowns

Before diving into solutions, let's briefly cover temporary crowns. These are temporary restorations placed after a tooth has been prepared for a permanent crown. They protect the prepared tooth, maintain its shape, and allow you to eat and speak normally. They are made of acrylic or similar materials, making them more prone to dislodgment than permanent crowns.

What to Do If Your Temporary Crown Falls Off

1. Remain Calm and Assess the Situation: First, take a deep breath. Many people experience this, and it's usually manageable. Gently examine the area. Is the temporary crown intact? Is there any bleeding?

2. Find Your Crown (If Possible): If you locate the temporary crown, carefully rinse it with water. Store it in a safe place, like a container with a little water or saline solution. This significantly increases the chances of your dentist being able to re-cement it.

3. Clean the Area: Gently clean the affected tooth and surrounding gum area with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride mouthwash. Avoid using abrasive cleaners.

4. Temporary Solutions (Use With Caution): While not ideal, and only for short-term solutions until you can reach your dentist: * Dental Cement: If you have any temporary dental cement (available at some pharmacies), you can carefully attempt to reattach the crown. This is a temporary fix and might not be successful. Follow the product instructions precisely. * Toothpaste (Last Resort): As a very last resort, a tiny amount of toothpaste can sometimes provide a temporary grip. However, this is less effective than dental cement and should only be used as a temporary measure. This method won't last long and may not even be useful for some people.

5. Protect the Tooth: Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further damage or injury. Stick to soft foods to minimize pressure on the prepared tooth.

6. Contact Your Dentist Immediately: This is the most crucial step. Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Explain what happened and ask for guidance. They will likely be able to re-cement the temporary crown or make a new one.

7. Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks: Refrain from consuming sticky, hard, or crunchy foods that could irritate the exposed tooth. This also prevents further damage to the prepared tooth.

What NOT to Do If Your Temporary Crown Falls Off

• Don't panic. While frustrating, it's not a dental emergency in most cases.
• Don't try to force the crown back on if it doesn't fit easily. You could cause more damage.
• Don't ignore the problem. The longer you wait, the higher the risk of complications.
• Don't use superglue or other household adhesives. These can be harmful to your gums and teeth.

Preventing Temporary Crown Displacement

• Avoid sticky foods.
• Don't bite down on hard objects.
• Brush and floss gently.
• Follow your dentist’s post-procedure instructions carefully.

When to Seek Immediate Dental Care

If you experience any significant pain, swelling, or bleeding, or if the temporary crown is causing discomfort, seek immediate dental attention. These could be signs of an infection or other complications.

Losing your temporary crown is a common occurrence. By following these steps and contacting your dentist promptly, you can minimize discomfort and ensure your tooth remains protected until your permanent crown is placed. Remember, prevention is key! Proper care and following your dentist's instructions will help you avoid this situation altogether.