A dental crown is a custom-made cap that protects a damaged tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape and strength. Though sturdy, crowns sometimes dislodge. If you have a loose dental crown, do not get panicked. Here’s how to handle it.
Several factors can cause a crown to shift. The cement holding it may erode over time. This weakens the grip between the crown and the tooth. Biting into hard foods or objects can also disrupt it. Grinding your teeth or suffering a mouth injury may also dislodge the crown. Sometimes, the tooth beneath it decays, loosening the dental crown.
What to Do Immediately
When your dental crown becomes loose, act swiftly. Follow these steps:
- Examine the crown: Check it closely. Ensure it’s not cracked or broken.
- Safeguard the crown: Stow it in a secure spot if it’s fallen out. Make sure not to swallow or misplace it.
- Contact your dentist: Reach out to your dentist right away. Describe what happened and schedule a visit.
- Steer clear of certain foods: Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods until you see your dentist. Steer clear of hard or sticky meals to stop further injury.
- Avoid home fixes: Never use glue or other adhesives on your crown. This can complicate repairs.
Easing the Discomfort
A loose crown may trigger discomfort. The tooth beneath it could become sensitive to heat or cold. It might also hurt when you bite. Here’s how to soothe it:
- Use temporary dental cement: Purchase temporary dental cement from a drugstore. This can anchor the crown until your dentist can reattach it.
- Apply clove oil: Dab clove oil onto your gums with a cotton swab. This causes numbness and provides temporary relief.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief: If you feel pain, take ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Follow the instructions for safe use.
What Happens at the Dentist
When you arrive at the dentist, they will assess the situation. Here’s what they’ll likely do:
- Inspect the crown: The dentist will scrutinize both the crown and the tooth, checking for signs of decay or damage.
- Clean the area: The dentist will clean both the tooth and the crown. They’ll remove any debris or old cement.
- Reattach the crown: If the crown is still in good shape, the dentist will apply fresh cement. They’ll carefully place it back on the tooth.
- Replace the crown: If the crown is damage, you may need a new one. Your dentist may fit you with a temporary crown until the permanent one is ready.
- Treat the tooth: If the tooth beneath the crown is decayed, the dentist may need to fix it first. This could involve a filling or a root canal before the crown is reattached.
Temporary Fixes
If you can’t see your dentist immediately, you can take a few temporary steps. These should only be used in the short term:
- Re-seat the crown: If it is undamaged, gently place it back on the tooth. Clean both the crown and the tooth first. Use temporary dental cement, the best dental glue for crowns, to hold it until your appointment.
- Protect the tooth: Cover the exposed tooth with dental wax if the crown won’t stay in place. This will guard it from damage and reduce sensitivity. It also acts as the best glue for tooth crowns.
- Avoid chewing on that side: Until the crown is secured, chew on the opposite side of your mouth. Stick to soft foods and liquids to prevent further harm.
Preventing Future Issues
After your crown is secured, follow these steps to avoid future loose dental crowns:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush twice a day and floss every day. This helps fend off decay around the crown.
- Avoid hard foods: Hard foods such as ice or nuts can harm your crown. Chew these on the opposite side of your mouth, or skip them altogether.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools: Refrain from using your teeth to open packages or bite non-food objects.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Routine check-ups will help your dentist catch potential issues early.
- Wear a mouthguard: Use a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at sleep. It can shield your crowns in addition to your teeth.
When to Replace a Crown
Dental crowns don’t last forever. Most need replacing every 10 to 15 years. Here are some signs that it might be time for a new crown:
- The crown is cracked or broken.
- You feel pain or sensitivity beneath it.
- The crown looks worn or discolored.
- There’s a gap between the crown and your gum.
What Happens If You Ignore a Loose Crown?
Ignoring a loose dental crown can escalate problems. Without the crown, your tooth is vulnerable. Decay, infection, or damage could occur.
Over time, the tooth may weaken or even fracture. If it becomes infected, you may need a root canal or, in severe cases, an extraction.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Usually, a loose dental crown isn’t an emergency. However, seek immediate care if:
- You experience severe pain.
- Your mouth or face swells.
- You get fever or infection symtoms.
These could point to a more serious issue that needs urgent attention.
Conclusion
A loose dental crown is a common issue. While it can be unsettling, it’s often easy to fix with alternate crowns or dental veneers. The important thing is to move quickly and wisely.
If you’re dealing with a loose dental crown, don’t wait. Schedule your appointment with Le Sueur Family Dental today for professional care and peace of mind. Our specialists can guide you on the most effective treatment plan while aiding you to develop a comprehensive oral health routine.
You can contact us at (507) 665-6812.
Visit us at 219 South 2nd Street Le Sueur, MN 56058.
