A filling or crown can come loose from eating something hard or sticky, from decay underneath, or from normal wear. It is rarely an emergency, but the tooth is no longer protected, so it should be seen soon.
What to do right away
- Save the crown or the piece. Keep it in a clean container. Your dentist may be able to reattach a crown if it is intact and the tooth underneath is healthy.
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm water, and brush the area carefully.
- Avoid chewing on that side. The exposed tooth can be sensitive and can crack.
- Call your dentist as soon as you can and explain what happened.
Temporary protection
If the tooth is sensitive, a pharmacy sells temporary dental cement that can cover the exposed area for a short time. Follow the package instructions. A crown can sometimes be placed back temporarily with this product while you wait for an appointment, but your dentist should do the permanent fix.
Do not use super glue or other household adhesives. They can be harmful to the tooth and the gum, and they make the repair harder.
Why it should not wait
An exposed tooth is more likely to develop decay, crack or become infected. Waiting also makes a simple repair more complicated. If the filling or crown fell out because of new decay, the tooth may need more treatment than just replacing the piece.
When it is more urgent
Call the office the same day if you have:
- Throbbing pain or pain that wakes you at night
- A broken tooth with sharp edges that cut your tongue or cheek
- Swelling in your gums or face
- A pimple-like bump on the gum
Call 911 or go to an emergency room if you have swelling that spreads toward your eye or neck, trouble breathing or swallowing, or a high fever with facial swelling.
What your dentist will do
Your dentist will examine the tooth and take an X-ray if needed. Depending on what is found, the filling can be replaced, the crown can be recemented or remade, or the tooth may need further treatment. See when you need a filling and how crowns are chosen.
Get help at NoHo Dental Group
We hold time for urgent dental problems. Call (747) 339-7016 and we will tell you how soon we can see you. You can also read about our emergency dentist services.
This article is general information and does not replace an exam or personal advice from your dentist.
Have questions about your own teeth? Request an appointment or call (747) 339-7016.
