Experiencing a dental emergency can be stressful, especially when you find yourself in a situation where your dental crown falls out and you don’t have immediate access to a dentist. While it’s always best to seek professional dental care, there are steps you can take to manage the situation and minimise discomfort until you can visit a dentist. This guide explains what to do if your dental crown fell out and you can’t see a dentist straight away.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First and foremost, it’s important to stay calm and assess the situation. If your dental crown fell out, it may cause some sensitivity or discomfort, but remember that it’s usually not an emergency. Take a deep breath and proceed with the following steps to help manage the situation.
Retrieve the Dental Crown and Inspect It
Carefully locate the dental crown that has fallen out. Handle it gently and inspect it for any damage or debris. If the crown is intact, you may be able to temporarily reattach it yourself. However, if it is cracked or damaged, avoid attempting to reattach it and consult a dentist as soon as possible. Also, if you struggle to get it to fit properly, it’s best not to force it in case you end up causing damage to other teeth.
Clean Your Mouth and the Crown
Thoroughly clean the affected area by rinsing your mouth with warm water. Gently brush around the area, taking care not to dislodge any remaining tooth structure. Clean the inside of the crown as well, using a toothbrush and toothpaste. This will help remove any debris or bacteria.
Temporary Crown Reattachment
If the dental crown appears to be in good condition, you can try temporarily reattaching it yourself using over-the-counter dental cement or even denture adhesive. Most pharmacies sell these products. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying the adhesive or cement to the crown and tooth. Ensure the crown is properly aligned before applying any pressure.
Be Mindful of Your Diet and Habits
While waiting for your dental appointment, it’s crucial to be mindful of your diet and habits. Avoid sticky or hard foods that may dislodge the temporary crown. Opt for softer foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth to minimise stress on the affected area. Additionally, refrain from using the affected tooth for biting or chewing gum, as it may cause further damage.
Contact a Dentist About Your Dental Crown
Even if you have successfully reattached the dental crown temporarily, it’s important to contact a dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. A loose or lost dental crown may indicate an underlying issue that needs professional attention. Your dentist can clean and check the tooth, then refit or replace the crown. If you are in Edinburgh, see our emergency dentist page or call 0131 225 9093. For more background, see the Oral Health Foundation guide to dental crowns.
Experiencing a dental crown falling out can be unsettling, especially when you can’t immediately visit a dentist. Remember, it’s essential to stay calm and take the necessary steps to manage the situation until you can seek professional dental care. By retrieving the crown, cleaning your mouth and the crown, temporarily reattaching it if possible, being mindful of your diet and habits, and contacting a dentist promptly, you can protect the tooth until you are seen. Remember, these steps are temporary solutions, and visiting a dentist should be your priority to address the underlying issue and restore the tooth properly.