What to Do If You Lost a Dental Crown

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are mostly used for teeth that have been severely damaged or otherwise compromised. They cover the entire visible part of a tooth to give it a more appealing look while also repairing its structure and function. If a dental crown ever falls off, it can be difficult to know what to do next. Read on to learn how to handle a lost dental crown until your dentist is able to repair it.

Step #1: Contact Your Dentist

As soon as you realize you lost a dental crown, reach out to your dentist. They will be able to give you instructions on what to do next and can help you schedule an appointment. If the incident occurs outside of their office hours, listen to their voicemail. It may provide you with information on what to do in the meantime.

Step #2: Locate the Crown

After you speak with your dentist, start looking for the crown. If you’re able to locate it, place it in a plastic sandwich bag to keep it safe. Bring the crown with you to your dentist’s appointment. They may be able to reattach it. If you can’t find the crown or your dentist can’t reuse it, they’ll have a new one made.

Step #3: Inspect Your Mouth

The next step is to inspect your mouth and see if any pieces of the crown are stuck where it used to be. Try to determine if the tooth under the crown is broken or if there are any sharp pieces poking out. You should also let them know if you’re experiencing any serious pain. This information will help your dentist determine if you require emergency treatment.

Step #4: Alleviate Discomfort and Prevent Damage

While you wait to see your dentist, there are a few things you can do to lessen discomfort and prevent additional damage to the tooth until your appointment, including:

• Take a pain reliever – This will help minimize sensitivity and discomfort.
• Apply a cold compress – Another way to lessen discomfort is to apply an ice pack to the affected area. Do so for 10 minutes at a time to lessen inflammation.
• Rinse – Put half a teaspoon of table salt in a glass of warm water.Rinsing with this mixture will help prevent infection and alleviate discomfort.
• Use dental wax – This can be used to cover jagged or sharp edges so your cheeks and tongue don’t get scratched.
• Chew carefully –Try waiting until the tooth has been repaired to eat anything. This will help with sensitivity and prevent food debris from getting stuck. If you need to eat before seeing your dentist, chew carefully and avoid doing so on the side of your mouth where the crown is supposed to be.
• Replace your crown –Only do this if your dentist instructs you to. Otherwise, store it in a clean container and bring it to your appointment.

Though it isn’t that common, having a lost dental crown isn’t impossible. With the above steps, you should be able to avoid further damage until your dentist can repair your smile!

About the Author

Avon Dental Group specializes in all things oral health. They offer a range of treatments, including protective procedures like dental crowns. They take pride in repairing damaged smiles and can either reattach or replace a lost dental crown so your smile can be whole once more. To learn more about Avon Dental Group’s services or to make an appointment with Dr. Purvesh Malaviya or Dr. Mrugank Sardhara, call (508) 587-8300 or visit their website.