What To Do if Your Permanent Crown Fell Out

Have you ever experienced that moment of panic when you feel something hard in your mouth while eating, only to discover it’s your dental crown? Despite being designed to last for many years, permanent crowns can sometimes become dislodged. At The Smile Spa, we know this unexpected dental emergency can be concerning, but knowing how to respond can protect your tooth until you can see your emergency dentist in Agoura Hills.

Key Takeaways

• If your permanent crown falls out, retrieve it, rinse with warm saltwater, and contact your emergency dentist immediately.
• Common causes include decay underneath, inadequate cement bond, improper fit, teeth grinding, sticky foods, age of restoration, and trauma.
• Temporary solutions include dental repair kits, dental wax, and clove oil for pain management while awaiting professional care.
• The Smile Spa offers same-day emergency appointments for crowns in Agoura Hills to prevent complications.
• Professional treatment may involve recementing the existing crown or creating a new one, depending on the condition of both crown and tooth.

Understanding Why Permanent Crowns Fall Out

Dental crowns are designed to be durable restorations that protect and strengthen damaged teeth. Made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these, these custom-made caps cover the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line. The average lifespan of a dental crown ranges from 5 to 15 years, depending on the material used and individual oral habits. Even well-crafted crowns from an experienced dentist in Agoura Hills eventually need replacement as the materials wear down or the underlying tooth structure changes.

Common Causes of Crown Dislodgement

Several factors can contribute to a permanent crown becoming loose or falling out completely:

• Decay underneath the crown: New decay can develop around the edges of the crown or on the remaining tooth structure beneath it, weakening the foundation.
• Inadequate cement bond: Sometimes the adhesive used doesn’t create a strong enough bond initially, or it deteriorates over time.
• Improper fit: If a crown doesn’t fit properly from the start, it may become loose due to normal chewing forces.
• Teeth grinding or clenching: Bruxism places excessive pressure on dental restorations, potentially causing them to loosen over time.
• Sticky foods: Regularly consuming very sticky or chewy foods can gradually pull at the crown and weaken its attachment.
• Age of the restoration: Even high-quality dental crowns aren’t designed to last forever. The cement can break down over time.
• Trauma or injury: A direct blow to the mouth can dislodge a crown, even one that was otherwise secure.

Immediate Steps to Take When Your Crown Falls Out

If your permanent crown has fallen out, follow these steps:

1. Locate and retrieve the crown: If possible, find the crown and keep it safe, as your dentist may be able to recement it.
2. Rinse your mouth gently: Use warm saltwater to clean the area and reduce the risk of infection.
3. Inspect the crown and your tooth: Look for any fragments or pieces missing from either, and note any sensitivity.
4. Protect the exposed tooth: Avoid hot, cold, and sweet foods and beverages, and try to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
5. Manage any pain: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage temporary discomfort.

Contacting an Emergency Dentist in Agoura Hills

When your crown falls out, contact your Agoura Hills dentist immediately. Most dental offices reserve time for emergencies like this. Be prepared to answer questions about when the crown fell out, whether you’re experiencing pain, if there’s any bleeding, and if you’ve retrieved the crown.

If your crown falls out outside of regular office hours, use your dentist’s emergency contact information or seek emergency dental services. Don’t delay—the longer you wait, the greater the risk of complications, such as tooth damage, infection, or misalignment.

Temporary Solutions and Home Remedies

While waiting for your appointment, try these temporary measures:

• Temporary cement products: Pharmacies often carry dental repair kits containing temporary cement. These can be used to reattach the crown temporarily, but remember that this is not a permanent solution.
• Dental wax: This can cover any sharp edges on the exposed tooth, protecting your tongue and cheek from irritation.
• Clove oil: For pain management, apply a minimal amount to the affected area using a cotton swab.
• Maintain good oral hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing carefully, paying special attention to gently cleaning the exposed tooth.

If you attempt to re-cement the crown yourself, be aware that this is only a temporary fix. Professional attention for crowns in Agoura Hills is still necessary as soon as possible.

My Dental Crown Fell Out: What to Expect at Your Appointment

When you visit your dentist after losing a crown, they will examine both the crown and the underlying tooth to assess their condition. X-rays may be taken to check for decay or other issues. The dentist will clean the tooth and remove any remaining cement or debris.

If both the crown and tooth are in good condition, your dentist may simply clean and recement the existing crown during the same visit. However, if the crown is damaged or the tooth has new decay, you may need a new crown or additional treatment. Your dentist will discuss all options with you based on your specific situation.

Schedule Your Emergency Dental Appointment Today

A dislodged crown requires prompt professional attention to prevent complications. At The Smile Spa, we understand the urgency of dental emergencies and offer same-day appointments whenever possible for crowns in Agoura Hills. Our experienced team can evaluate your situation, recommend the appropriate treatment, and help you restore your smile quickly and comfortably. Don’t wait until complications develop—contact our office immediately if you’ve lost a dental crown.