What to Do if Your Crown Falls Out

It's a regular day, and you're enjoying your favorite meal when suddenly, you feel something hard in your mouth. You spit it out, only to find that your dental crown has fallen out! This can be a shocking and unnerving experience. But don't panic. Here's a guide on what to do if your crown falls out.

Understanding Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a common dental restoration procedure. They are used to cover a tooth that is decayed, damaged, or discolored. Crowns are designed to blend with your natural teeth and can last for many years. However, they can sometimes become loose and fall out. 

Why do crowns fall out? - Crowns can fall out for several reasons. It could be due to tooth decay under the crown, the cement used to bond the crown wearing off, or trauma to the mouth. 

What should you do? - If your crown falls out, it's important not to panic. Keep the crown in a safe place and contact your dentist as soon as possible.

Steps to Take When Your Crown Falls Out

If your crown falls out, there are certain steps you should take to ensure the best possible outcome.

Don't swallow the crown: If your crown falls out while you're eating, be careful not to swallow it. 

Clean the crown and your mouth: Rinse the crown and your mouth with warm water. 

Try to reattach the crown: If possible, try to place the crown back over the tooth. You can use over-the-counter dental cement or toothpaste to hold it in place temporarily. 

Avoid eating on the side of the lost crown: This can prevent further damage to the tooth. 

When to See a Dentist

It's important to see a dentist as soon as possible if your crown falls out. A lost crown leaves your tooth vulnerable to damage and decay. If left untreated, it could lead to more severe problems and potentially require more extensive treatment. 

Don't delay: Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. 

Bring your crown with you: If you've managed to keep hold of your crown, bring it with you to your appointment. 

Preventing Future Crown Loss

While it's not always possible to prevent a crown from falling out, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk. 

• Maintain good oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing daily can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to crown loss. 
• Avoid hard foods: Hard foods can cause damage to your crown and lead to it falling out. 
• Visit your dentist regularly: Regular check-ups can help your dentist spot any potential issues early. 

Get Professional Dental Help in Charlottesville, VA

If you're in the Charlottesville, VA area and your crown has fallen out, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Rivanna Dental Care. Dr. Tommy Duong and his team are here to help. We'll get you in for an appointment as soon as possible and do everything we can to restore your smile. Call us today at (434) 974-6492 to request an appointment with your dentist in Charlottesville.