The Short Answer: If your crown falls out, the first thing to do is find it and keep it safe.

If the tooth underneath is sensitive, you can apply a little clove oil or dental cement (available at pharmacies) to the area for temporary relief. While it is rarely a medical emergency, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible to prevent the remaining tooth from shifting or sustaining further damage.

Immediate Steps: Dental First Aid

If you have the crown in your hand, follow these steps:

  1. Examine It: Check if the crown is intact or if it has shattered.
  2. Clean It: Rinse it gently with water to remove debris.
  3. Store It: Place it in a small container or a zip-lock bag to bring to your appointment.
  4. Protect the Tooth: The exposed tooth tissue might be sensitive to hot and cold. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.

Can I glue it back on myself?

This is a temporary measure only. If you cannot get to the dentist immediately and the tooth is causing you pain or cosmetic embarrassment (e.g., a front tooth), you might be able to slip it back on temporarily.

  1. Clean the inside of the crown.
  2. Coat the inner surface with over-the-counter dental cement or denture adhesive (toothpaste can also work in a pinch).
  3. Gently place it over the tooth. Warning: Never use superglue or household glues. These are toxic and can damage the tooth and gum, making professional repair impossible.

How will the dentist fix it?

When you come to Sundial Dental, our priority is to save the tooth and restore your bite.

  • Re-Cementing: If the crown is intact and the tooth underneath is healthy (no decay), we may simply be able to clean it and re-cement it permanently.
  • New Crown: If the crown is fractured, or if the tooth underneath has decayed, we will likely need to prepare the tooth and fit a new crown.
  • Extraction: In rare cases where the tooth structure has broken off inside the crown and cannot be saved, we may need to discuss extraction and replacement options like an implant or bridge.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Once your crown is fixed or replaced, taking care of it is essential to ensure it lasts.

  • Wait to Eat: If we have re-cemented the crown, avoid sticky or hard foods for at least 24 hours to let the cement set fully.
  • Hygiene: A crown cannot decay, but the tooth edge (margin) where it meets the gum can. Brush twice daily and floss carefully around the margin to prevent bacteria from entering.
  • Check Habits: Avoid chewing ice or opening packaging with your teeth, as this can crack porcelain. If you grind your teeth, ask us about a night guard to protect your investment.

Conclusion

A broken crown is an inconvenience, but with quick action, it is easily managed. If your crown feels loose, smells bad, or has fallen out completely, call us immediately so we can get your smile back to full strength.