Losing your temporary crown can be a frustrating and even slightly alarming experience. However, don't panic! While it's important to address the situation promptly, it's usually not a dental emergency. This guide will walk you through the steps to take if your temporary crown falls off, ensuring you protect your tooth and get the problem resolved efficiently.
What is a Temporary Crown?
Before we dive into solutions, let's quickly understand what a temporary crown is. A temporary crown is a placeholder used after a tooth has been prepared for a permanent crown. It protects the prepared tooth from damage, sensitivity, and keeps your bite stable while the permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental lab. They are usually made from acrylic or metal, and are less durable than permanent crowns.
What Should I Do If My Temporary Crown Falls Off?
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation: First, take a deep breath and try to remain calm. Carefully examine the fallen crown and your tooth. If possible, try to gently rinse both the crown and your mouth with warm salt water.
2. Try to Re-Attach the Crown (If Possible): If the crown is intact and you can easily reattach it, you can try using a temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies) or even a small amount of toothpaste to secure it back in place. This is a temporary fix only, and should not be considered a long-term solution.
3. Protect the Exposed Tooth: If you can't reattach the crown, or if you choose not to, it’s crucial to protect the exposed tooth. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, as the prepared tooth is sensitive and vulnerable to damage. You can try using dental wax or a small piece of sugarless gum to cover the exposed area and provide some temporary protection.
4. Contact Your Dentist Immediately: This is the most critical step. Even if you've managed to re-attach the crown, you still need to contact your dentist as soon as possible. They need to assess the situation and ensure there's no damage to the prepared tooth or surrounding gum tissue. Delaying this can lead to further complications.
How Long Can I Wait Before Seeing My Dentist?
While a temporary fix might hold for a short time, you should aim to contact your dentist and schedule an appointment as soon as possible, ideally within 24-48 hours. The longer you wait, the higher the risk of damaging the prepared tooth or experiencing discomfort.
What Happens When I See My Dentist?
Your dentist will examine your tooth and assess the situation. They might be able to re-cement the temporary crown or create a new one. If the damage is significant, they might need to adjust the preparation or even send the case back to the lab for adjustments to the permanent crown if it's nearly ready.
Can I Eat and Drink Normally?
No, avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth until you see your dentist. This prevents further damage to the exposed tooth. You can still eat and drink, but focus on soft foods on the unaffected side.
Why Did My Temporary Crown Fall Off?
Several factors can contribute to a temporary crown falling off. These include:
- Poor cementation: The initial cementing process might not have been effective.
- Trauma: Accidental impacts or biting on hard objects can dislodge the crown.
- Poor oral hygiene: Lack of proper brushing and flossing can increase the risk of infection and loosening of the crown.
- Excessive biting forces: Grinding or clenching your teeth can cause stress on the temporary crown.
What If My Permanent Crown Falls Off?
This is a different scenario and requires immediate attention. A permanent crown falling off is generally considered a dental emergency. Contact your dentist immediately.
By following these steps, you can manage the situation effectively and ensure the health of your tooth until you can see your dentist. Remember, prevention is key! Good oral hygiene practices and avoiding hard foods can significantly reduce the risk of your temporary crown falling off.
