What to Do If Your Dental Crown Comes Loose

A dental crown covers a damaged or weakened tooth and helps protect it during everyday activities such as eating and brushing. Although dental crowns is intended to remain securely in place, it may sometimes loosen. You might notice the crown moving when you bite or a change in the tooth’s sensitivity.

A loose crown should be assessed by a dentist, even if it is not causing significant discomfort. Until your appointment, a few careful steps may help you avoid disturbing the crown or placing unnecessary pressure on the affected tooth.

Check the Crown Carefully

Stop chewing and check the area without pulling, twisting or repeatedly testing the crown with your tongue or fingers. If it is still partly attached, unnecessary movement could dislodge it completely or irritate the surrounding area.

If the crown has come off, remove it carefully from your mouth so that it is not accidentally swallowed or damaged. Place it in a clean container and bring it to your dental appointment. The dentist will examine the crown and the tooth beneath it before recommending the next step.

Call a Dental Clinic

Contact a dental clinic as soon as you can and explain that your crown is loose or has fallen out. Mention any pain, sensitivity, swelling, bleeding or visible damage. This information can help the dental team understand the situation and provide instructions based on your symptoms.

A loose crown may not always cause severe discomfort, but the tooth underneath may be less protected until it is assessed. Arranging emergency dentistry can reduce the amount of time you spend with an unstable or missing crown.

Protect the Area Until Your Appointment

While waiting to see a dentist, follow any instructions the dental clinic provides. General precautions may include:

1. Keep the area clean. Brush gently and avoid disturbing a crown that is still partly attached.

2. Chew on the other side. Avoid placing pressure on the affected tooth until it has been assessed.

3. Choose soft foods. Hard, sticky or chewy foods could place additional pressure on the crown.

4. Avoid extreme temperatures. Very hot or cold foods may be uncomfortable if the tooth is sensitive.

5. Keep the crown safe. If it has fallen out, store it in a clean container and bring it to your appointment.

Do not use household glue or another non-dental adhesive to reattach the crown. Do not force it back into place if it does not fit comfortably. A dental professional should assess the crown and the tooth before determining the appropriate treatment.

Symptoms to Mention When You Call

Tell the dental clinic if the loose crown is accompanied by significant pain, worsening swelling, ongoing bleeding, a broken tooth or a facial injury. Clearly describing your symptoms allows the dental team to better understand the situation and advise you about the next step.

If you experience severe facial swelling or difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek immediate medical assistance.

What Happens During the Dental Appointment?

During your appointment, the dentist can examine the crown, the underlying tooth and the surrounding tissue. The dentist will then explain whether the crown can be secured again or whether another treatment may be needed.

Avoid trying to diagnose or repair the problem yourself. A professional examination is needed to determine why the crown loosened and what treatment may be appropriate.

Contact a Dentist About a Loose Crown

A loose crown may happen unexpectedly, but taking a few careful steps can help you avoid disturbing the area before your appointment. Keep the tooth clean, avoid chewing on that side and save the crown if it comes off.

If your dental crown feels loose or has fallen out, call Nordel Dental Clinic to request an emergency dental appointment.