Serving as protective caps that encase the entire visible surface of a tooth, dental crowns are a common solution for extensively damaged or decayed teeth, exceeding the capabilities of dental fillings. Moreover, they play a role in improving the aesthetic of a tooth after root canal treatment or addressing notable cosmetic flaws. Despite their typical durability of around 15 years, dental crowns are not exempt from potential damage or loss. In the event of a lost dental crown, follow these three steps to handle the situation until your dentist can provide a resolution.
Step #1: Contact Your Dentist
If you find that one of your dental crowns has come loose, your first action should be to contact your dentist. Explain the situation thoroughly, and they will help you arrange an appointment to address the lost crown. Additionally, they will provide guidance on what to do next and offer advice to keep you comfortable until your appointment.
Step #2: Locate the Crown
Retrieve the displaced crown and securely place it in a plastic bag to ensure its safety. Remember to bring it along to your appointment. Your dentist will assess if the crown can be reattached. If it’s not retrievable or reusable, they will proceed with crafting a replacement.
Step #3: Inspect Your Mouth
Examine the area where the crown was situated to detect any leftover fragments. Additionally, assess if there are any signs of damage to the underlying tooth, such as breakage or sharp edges, and evaluate the level of discomfort you’re experiencing. Sharing this information with your dentist will aid them in determining if emergency treatment is necessary.
Step #4: Mitigate Discomfort and Prevent Damage
In addition to your dentist’s guidance over the phone on preventing further damage and ensuring comfort until your appointment, here are some additional ways to improve your situation in the meantime:
- Use dental wax – Use dental wax to protect your cheeks or tongue from any sharp edges in the area where the crown is missing.
- Chew carefully –Refrain from eating until the tooth is fixed to avoid heightened sensitivity and food debris getting stuck. If you must eat before your dental appointment, chew carefully on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Replace your crown –If your dentist instructs, reattach the crown; otherwise, store it in a clean, dry container and take it with you to your appointment.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever – This action can alleviate pain or sensitivity. Using an ice pack on the affected area for 10-minute intervals can also reduce swelling.
- Rinse – Mix half a teaspoon of salt into warm water and use it to rinse your mouth. This helps prevent infection and eases pain.
Fortunately, incidents of lost dental crowns are uncommon. If you do find yourself in this predicament, follow the provided steps to address the issue. Your dentist will promptly arrange a repair, ensuring your smile is quickly restored!
About the Practice
Looking for a dentist in Houston who can address your oral health concerns? Consider visiting Dr. Mark Gray’s dental office. They prioritize personalized care, assessing damage meticulously and selecting the best solution to restore your tooth, ensuring both your health and the beauty of your smile. If you are ready to schedule an appointment or would like to learn more about getting dental crowns, you can visit Dr. Gray’s website or call his office at (281) 493-9395.