What to Do if Your Temporary Crown Comes Off

A temporary crown is a crucial part of dental treatment, serving as a placeholder while your permanent crown is being made. But what happens when this temporary fixture unexpectedly comes off? It can be a bit alarming, but there's no need to panic. 

Understanding the steps to take when your temporary crown falls off can help you manage the situation calmly and effectively, ensuring minimal discomfort and protecting your underlying tooth structure until you can see your dentist.

Immediate Steps to Take

If your temporary crown comes off, it's important to act swiftly to protect your tooth. Here are some immediate steps you should consider:

• Keep the Crown: Carefully retrieve the crown and store it in a safe place. It can often be temporarily reattached.
• Inspect the Tooth: Look at the exposed tooth for any signs of damage.
• Rinse Your Mouth: Use warm water to gently rinse your mouth, keeping the area clean.

These initial actions can help prevent further complications and prepare you for the next steps in securing your dental health.

Temporary Fixes at Home

While it's essential to see your dentist as soon as possible, there are temporary measures you can take to protect your tooth in the meantime:

• Temporary Cement: You can use over-the-counter dental cement to temporarily reattach the crown.
• Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing gently around the affected area.
• Avoid Certain Foods: Steer clear of sticky or hard foods that could further damage the tooth or pull it off after you replace it with dental cement.

These tips can help you manage until you can get professional dental care.

Why Temporary Crowns Come Off

Understanding why a temporary crown might come off can help prevent future occurrences. Some common reasons include:

• Sticky Foods: Consuming sticky or chewy foods can dislodge the crown.
• Insufficient Adhesive: The adhesive may weaken over time or may not have been applied properly.
• Tooth Decay: Underlying decay can compromise the fit and stability of the crown.

By being aware of these factors, you can take steps to protect your dental work.

When to See Your Dentist

If your temporary crown comes off, you need to see your dentist to have it replaced. However, you can usually wait a few days to book your consultation unless you notice one of the following issues with your tooth:

• Persistent Discomfort: You experience ongoing pain or sensitivity.
• Loose Crown: The temporary fix doesn’t hold, or the crown feels loose.
• Visible Damage: There are signs of damage to the crown or underlying tooth.

Your dentist will ensure that your tooth is properly protected and that your permanent crown is fitted correctly.

Reach Out to Carron Family Dental in Ballwin, MO

If your temporary crown has come off, don't hesitate to contact Dr. Tyler Carron at Carron Family Dental. Our team in Ballwin, MO, is ready to assist you with prompt and professional care. Call us at (636) 256-3559 to schedule an appointment and ensure your dental health is in expert hands.