Losing a crown can be a jarring experience. One minute you're enjoying a meal, the next you're feeling that familiar metallic tang and the disconcerting gap in your teeth. A dislodged crown isn't just uncomfortable; it can expose the sensitive inner layers of your tooth, leading to pain, sensitivity, and potential damage. While a dentist's chair is always the ideal destination for this dental dilemma, sometimes immediate professional help isn't readily available. Knowing how to temporarily manage a broken or loose crown at home can be a lifesaver, providing comfort and preventing further complications until you can schedule an appointment.
Dealing with a compromised crown promptly is crucial. Leaving the exposed tooth unprotected can invite bacteria, increase the risk of infection, and even shift the alignment of surrounding teeth. Whether you're miles from civilization on a camping trip or simply waiting for your dentist's office to open, understanding the basics of at-home crown care empowers you to take control of the situation and minimize potential problems. This guide offers practical steps to clean, temporarily reattach, and protect your tooth, offering peace of mind while you await professional dental care.
What are the essential steps and precautions for temporarily fixing a broken crown at home?
What can I use as a temporary cement for a loose crown at home?
If your crown has come loose, you can use over-the-counter temporary dental cement, readily available at most drugstores or pharmacies. These cements are designed to provide a short-term fix, allowing you to reattach the crown and protect the underlying tooth until you can see your dentist. Brands like Dentemp, Recapit, or Temparin are common and effective options.
While temporary dental cement can help reattach a loose crown, it's essential to follow the product instructions carefully. Before applying the cement, clean the crown and your tooth thoroughly. Gently dry both, then apply a small amount of cement to the inside of the crown. Carefully position the crown back onto your tooth, bite down gently to ensure proper alignment, and remove any excess cement. Avoid eating or drinking for at least an hour after reattaching the crown to allow the cement to set properly. Remember that this is only a temporary solution. The bond created by over-the-counter cements is not as strong as the permanent cement used by your dentist, and the crown could come loose again. Furthermore, a loose crown can create a space where bacteria can accumulate, leading to decay and other dental problems. Therefore, it's crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to have the crown properly re-cemented. Delaying professional treatment could compromise the health of the underlying tooth and potentially require more extensive and costly dental work in the future.How do I clean my tooth if my crown falls off completely?
If your crown falls off completely, gently clean the exposed tooth with a very soft toothbrush and warm water. Avoid using toothpaste at this stage, as it can be abrasive. Focus on removing any food particles or debris that may have accumulated around the tooth.
The exposed tooth underneath a crown is often more sensitive and vulnerable to bacteria and decay. When cleaning, use a gentle touch and avoid applying excessive pressure. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water afterward to dislodge any remaining loose particles. You can also use a mild saltwater rinse (1/4 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) to help soothe any irritation and reduce the risk of infection. Avoid using mouthwashes containing alcohol, as they can further irritate the exposed tooth. It's important to keep the area clean until you can see your dentist for a permanent solution. If you experience significant pain, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the package instructions. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the crown came off to prevent further damage or discomfort. Contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment to have the crown re-cemented or replaced. Delays in treatment can lead to more serious problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, or shifting of adjacent teeth.Is it safe to glue my crown back on myself?
Generally, no, it is not recommended or considered safe to glue your crown back on yourself permanently. While over-the-counter dental cements might seem like a quick fix, they are intended for temporary use only and can lead to further complications if used improperly or for an extended period.
Attempting to re-cement a crown yourself carries several risks. You could inadvertently use too much cement, preventing the crown from fully seating and affecting your bite. An ill-fitting crown can place undue stress on adjacent teeth, leading to pain, sensitivity, and even damage. Furthermore, the temporary cement available over the counter lacks the strength and antibacterial properties of professional dental cement, increasing the risk of bacteria leaking under the crown, leading to decay and potential infection of the underlying tooth. Instead of attempting a DIY fix, it is crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. They will properly clean the crown and the underlying tooth, assess the reason for the crown's dislodgement (such as decay or poor fit), and use professional-grade cement to re-cement the crown securely. In the meantime, you can find temporary dental cement at your local drug store to help keep the crown in place until you get to your dentist, but only as a temporary measure.What are the risks of trying to fix a broken crown at home?
Attempting to fix a broken crown at home carries significant risks, including further damaging the underlying tooth, introducing bacteria and infection, causing misalignment of your bite, and potentially swallowing or aspirating the crown or adhesives used.
Trying to re-cement a crown yourself often involves using over-the-counter dental cements or adhesives, which are not designed for long-term use or the precise fit required for a dental crown. These materials may not properly seal the crown, allowing bacteria to seep in and cause decay or gum disease. Furthermore, improperly positioning the crown when re-cementing it can alter your bite, leading to jaw pain, headaches, and even damage to opposing teeth. Beyond the risk of further dental complications, there is also the possibility of accidentally swallowing the crown or small pieces of adhesive. While the crown itself may pass through your digestive system without issue, aspiration (inhaling it into your lungs) could be a serious medical emergency. Finally, using unsterile tools or materials can introduce infection into the area around the tooth, potentially leading to more significant health problems. For these reasons, seeking professional dental care is always the safest and most effective course of action when dealing with a broken or dislodged crown.What if I swallowed my crown, is that an emergency?
Swallowing a dental crown is generally not considered a medical emergency. The crown is usually small and smooth enough to pass through your digestive system without causing significant harm. However, it's still important to contact your dentist as soon as possible to discuss getting a new crown made.
While the crown will likely pass naturally, there's a small chance it could cause irritation or, in very rare cases, a blockage in your digestive tract. This is especially true if the crown has sharp edges or if you have pre-existing digestive issues. Observe yourself for any symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty passing stool. If you experience any of these, seek immediate medical attention to rule out any complications. Moreover, swallowing a crown means your prepared tooth is now exposed. This can lead to sensitivity, discomfort, and an increased risk of decay or further damage. It's best to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until you can see your dentist. They will be able to assess the tooth and provide a temporary solution, if necessary, while a permanent crown is being fabricated.How long can I wait before seeing a dentist about a lost crown?
You should see a dentist as soon as possible after losing a crown, ideally within a few days. Delaying treatment can lead to several complications, including tooth sensitivity, shifting of adjacent teeth, and potential decay or infection of the exposed tooth.
The unprotected tooth is now vulnerable. Without the crown, it's susceptible to temperature changes (hot and cold), pressure from chewing, and bacteria. The exposed dentin layer underneath the enamel is much softer and more porous, making it easier for decay to start and progress rapidly. Furthermore, adjacent teeth can start to shift into the empty space, affecting your bite and potentially leading to more complex and costly dental work later on. If the underlying tooth was already compromised, the risk of further damage increases significantly the longer you wait. Attempting to delay indefinitely is strongly discouraged. While some people might temporarily re-cement a crown with over-the-counter dental cement, this is only a short-term solution that often fails and can cause more harm than good if done incorrectly. Professional cementation is required to ensure proper fit, prevent bacterial leakage, and protect the underlying tooth structure. The sooner you see your dentist, the less likely you are to experience complications and the simpler the treatment will be.What over-the-counter products might help with pain from a lost crown?
When a crown falls out, the exposed tooth can become extremely sensitive and painful. Over-the-counter options to manage this pain primarily include pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to reduce inflammation and general discomfort. Additionally, dental wax can be used to cover the exposed tooth, creating a barrier against temperature changes, air, and food particles that trigger sensitivity. Topical oral analgesics containing benzocaine, such as Anbesol or Orajel, can provide temporary, localized pain relief.
The effectiveness of these products depends on the severity of the exposed tooth's sensitivity. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen work systemically to reduce pain and inflammation, and taking them as directed on the packaging is crucial. Dental wax acts as a physical protectant, preventing further irritation. To apply it, roll a small piece of wax between your fingers to soften it, then gently press it onto the exposed tooth surface. Reapply as needed, especially before eating. While oral analgesics can provide immediate relief, their effect is temporary and should be used sparingly. Remember that these are temporary solutions. A lost crown exposes the underlying tooth structure, which is more vulnerable to decay and damage. It's imperative to see a dentist as soon as possible to have a new crown made and cemented in place. Prolonged exposure can lead to more serious complications, like infection or the need for a root canal. While managing the pain at home is necessary in the interim, professional dental care is essential for a lasting solution and to protect your oral health.Well, there you have it! Hopefully, these tips have helped you tackle that broken crown tooth and get you smiling again (at least temporarily!). Remember, this is really just a temporary fix, so please, please get yourself to a dentist as soon as you can. They'll be able to provide a permanent solution and ensure your pearly whites stay healthy and happy. Thanks for stopping by, and we hope you'll come back soon for more helpful tips and tricks!