Quick Summary
If your dental crown falls off, don’t panic. The most important thing you can do is protect the tooth underneath until you can see your dentist. Store the crown safely, avoid chewing on that side, and call your dental office right away. Temporary fixes may help prevent discomfort, but only a professional can restore your crown properly.
Key Takeaways
- Do not attempt to glue the crown back on using household adhesives
- Store the crown in a clean container and bring it to your appointment
- Avoid chewing, hot/cold foods, and sugary drinks on the affected side
- Call your dentist right away for a same-day or next-day emergency visit
Why Dental Crowns Come Loose or Fall Off
Dental crowns are strong and reliable, but they aren’t invincible. Over time, wear and tear, tooth decay, or weakened bonding cement can lead to a crown loosening or falling off entirely. Biting into something sticky or hard, like caramel, ice, or even nuts, can also dislodge a crown. If your crown has been in place for many years, the cement may simply fail with age.
If you’re curious about how long crowns typically last or why they’re used in the first place, check out our Essential Guide to Dental Crowns.
First Steps: What to Do Immediately
If your crown falls off, follow these steps:
1. Retrieve the Crown
Carefully find the crown and rinse it gently under lukewarm water. Place it in a small, clean container. Don’t try to clean or scrub it further; your dentist will evaluate whether it can be reused.
2. Protect the Tooth
The exposed tooth underneath may feel sensitive to air, temperature, or pressure. Avoid chewing on that side, and steer clear of anything hot, cold, or sugary until you’ve had it evaluated.
3. Call Your Dentist
Contact our office immediately. A lost crown is considered a dental emergency, especially if it causes discomfort or leaves a tooth exposed. At McOmie Family Dentistry, we make time for urgent visits to help prevent further damage or pain.
4. Use Temporary Dental Cement (If Needed)
Over-the-counter dental cement or temporary crown kits may provide short-term protection if you can’t be seen right away. Avoid using anything not specifically designed for dental use. Never apply super glue or similar adhesives, which are toxic and can cause more harm than good.
What Not to Do When Your Crown Falls Off
- Don’t Ignore It
Even if you’re not in pain, the exposed tooth is vulnerable to decay and shifting. Waiting too long increases the risk of needing a root canal or a new crown. - Don’t Use Glue
Household glues are not safe for your mouth and can damage both the tooth and the crown. Dental adhesives sold at pharmacies are designed for temporary use only. - Don’t Chew on That Side
Putting pressure on the exposed tooth or adjacent teeth can lead to more serious damage, especially if the underlying tooth is weakened or sensitive.
Can the Crown Be Reused?
Often, yes. If the crown is intact and the underlying tooth is still structurally sound, your dentist may be able to re-cement it during your visit. This is especially true if you’ve taken care to keep the crown clean and undamaged. However, if the crown or tooth is fractured or if decay is present, a replacement may be necessary.
For more details on when crowns can be reused or replaced, read our post on the Cosmetic and Functional Benefits of Crowns and Bridges.
How McOmie Family Dentistry Handles Lost Crowns
At McOmie Family Dentistry in Chattanooga, we treat dislodged crowns as a priority. When you call, we’ll schedule you for the soonest available appointment. During your visit, we’ll:
- Assess the health of the exposed tooth
- Examine the crown for damage
- Take digital X-rays if needed
- Determine whether the crown can be reattached or if a new one is needed
We aim to relieve discomfort quickly while preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible.
Preventing Future Crown Issues
While some crown issues are unavoidable, you can lower your risk of future problems by:
- Avoiding sticky, hard, or chewy foods
- Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Maintaining regular dental cleanings and exams
- Letting your dentist know if your bite ever feels “off”
If your crown felt loose before it came off, that’s a sign the bonding may have been compromised. We recommend coming in before it falls out to avoid an emergency.
Not sure what qualifies as urgent? Our post on Are You Prepared for a Dental Emergency? outlines what to look for.
Schedule Prompt Care Today
Losing a crown can be stressful, but fast action makes all the difference. Whether your crown fell out during lunch or while flossing, McOmie Family Dentistry is here to help. We’ll restore your smile with care, precision, and the latest technology.
Call us today to schedule your visit or request an appointment online.
