What to Do If Your Dental Crown Chips or Falls Out: A Complete Guide

Dental crowns play a key role in protecting your smile. They protect damaged or decayed teeth and keep everything looking and working the way it should. But when a crown chips or breaks, it can catch you off guard. Suddenly, you’re dealing with pain, sensitivity, or just the uncomfortable feeling of something not being right in your mouth. Even everyday things like eating or brushing can turn into hassles you don’t want to deal with.

So what do you do if your dental crown chips or falls out? Here’s what helps until you can see your dentist in Jupiter.

1. Don’t Panic—Check What’s Happened

First, try not to panic. Crowns coming loose or chipping happen more often than you’d think, and dentists deal with it all the time. Take a look: Is the crown completely out, or just wobbly? If you spot the crown (or pieces of it), pick them up and check if there’s any pain or if the tooth underneath looks damaged. That info will help your dentist figure out what’s next.

2. Save the Crown

If the crown’s out, rinse it gently with warm water and stash it somewhere safe—like a little container or a plastic bag. Don’t hold it in your hand too much. If it’s just chipped, don’t chew your food using it or try to force it back into place.

3. Try Temporary Dental Cement if Needed

You can find temporary dental cement at most pharmacies. Sometimes, you can use it to stick the crown back on just until you reach the dentist. Follow the instructions and don’t overdo it—this is just a temporary solution, not a permanent fix. If the crown is only cracked but still there, avoid chewing on that side, and go easy on it.

4. Skip Hard Foods

While you’re waiting for your dentist appointment, follow a diet rich in soft foods. Hard foods like ice, nuts, or caramel can make things worse—either for the crown or the tooth underneath. Chew on the opposite side if you can. If you’re sore or the tooth is sensitive, painkillers like ibuprofen can help. Just follow the dentist’s directions.

5. Call Your Dentist ASAP

Even if you’ve managed to patch things up for now, call your dentist in Jupiter right away for a foolproof dental crown repair or replacement. A loose or broken crown isn’t something you want to ignore. The dentist will check the damage and either re-cement, repair, or replace the crown, depending on its condition.

Why Do Crowns Break or Fall Out?

Crowns are strong, but a few things can cause trouble:

• Decay or damage to the tooth underneath. If the tooth weakens, the crown can loosen or fall off.
• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism). Grinding at night can crack crowns.
• Chewing on hard stuff. Ice, hard candy, and even biting pens can chip crowns.
• Just getting older. Over time, crowns wear down like anything else.

What Happens at the Dentist?

When you get to the office, your dentist examines the crown and the tooth. If it’s fixable, they’ll clean it and put it back on. If it’s too damaged, they’ll talk with you about getting a new one.

If your crown chips or falls out, don’t wait. Take these steps and get in touch with our dentist at Modern Dentistry of Jupiter. A little quick action now keeps your mouth healthy and your smile looking good. It’s always better to deal with it sooner rather than later.

FAQs

What happens if I don’t see a dentist after my dental crown falls out?
If you don’t see a dentist right away, the exposed tooth could become more vulnerable to decay or further damage. It’s essential to address the issue promptly to avoid complications.

Can I glue my dental crown back on myself?
It’s not recommended to use superglue or other adhesives to reattach your crown. While temporary dental cement can be used in some cases, it’s essential to consult with a dentist for proper treatment.

How long does a dental crown typically last?
A dental crown can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, depending on the material used and how well you care for it. Regular dental checkups are essential to ensure its longevity.

Can a chipped dental crown cause pain?
Yes, if the crown is chipped, it can expose the underlying tooth, leading to pain and sensitivity, especially when chewing or drinking hot or cold beverages.