My Crown Fell Out but It Doesn’t Hurt

If your crown falls out but doesn’t hurt, it’s still important to see your dentist promptly. The tooth may not hurt because the nerve might be removed or less sensitive, but leaving it unprotected can lead to further damage or decay. Your dentist can assess the situation and reattach or replace the crown, ensuring the tooth stays healthy and functional.

My Crown Fell Out But it Doesn’t Hurt – Do I Need to Replace it?

Yes, even if your crown fell out and there’s no pain, you need to replace it. The crown serves as protection for a damaged or decayed tooth, maintaining its structure and preventing further issues.

Without the crown, the exposed tooth is vulnerable to damage, decay, and sensitivity. Contact your dentist as soon as possible to reattach the existing crown or create a new one.

What to Do If Your Dental Crown Falls Off

If your dental crown falls off, you’ll want to minimize any discomfort and prevent further dental issues.

Here’s what you should do:

Keep the Crown Safe

If you can find the crown, carefully pick it up and clean it gently with water. Avoid using soap or chemicals. Keep it in a safe place because your dentist may be able to re-cement it back onto your tooth.

Contact Your Dentist Immediately

Make an appointment as soon as possible. Most dental offices will accommodate emergencies like a lost crown. The sooner you get to the dentist, the better the chances are of reattaching the crown without needing a new one.

Temporary Solutions

If you cannot see your dentist immediately and are experiencing discomfort, you can try the following temporary solutions:

Dental Cement

Over-the-counter dental cement can temporarily reattach the crown if it fits well and there’s no pain when placing it back on the tooth. Follow the product instructions carefully.

Clove Oil

If you’re experiencing pain, applying a small amount of clove oil with a cotton swab to the sensitive area can help. Clove oil has natural analgesic properties and can be found at pharmacies.

Dental Wax or Gum

If the exposed tooth is sharp or jagged, covering it with dental wax or sugar-free gum can protect your tongue and cheeks from cuts. Dental wax is pretty common for people who use Invisalign or traditional dental braces.

Clean the Area

While waiting for your dental appointment, keep the area around the lost crown clean to prevent infection. Gently brush around the area if it’s not too painful and rinse with warm salt water.

Avoid Certain Foods

Try to avoid chewing on the side of the missing crown to prevent damage to the exposed tooth. Also, steer clear of very hard, sticky, or sugary foods that could cause pain or further damage.

Pain Management

If you’re experiencing pain, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce discomfort. Follow the dosage instructions on the package.

Can I Glue My Crown Back On?

It is not advisable to use regular household glues to reattach a dental crown. These glues are not intended for medical use and can be harmful if ingested. They may also damage the tooth or crown, making it more difficult for your dentist to properly repair it later.

Instead, if you need a temporary solution until you can see your dentist, consider the following options:

Over-the-counter Dental Cement

You can find dental cement at most pharmacies, which is specifically designed for dental use. This can be used to temporarily secure the crown back in place. Be sure to follow the package instructions carefully.

Dental Wax or Sugar-Free Gum

If you can’t get dental cement and the crown or tooth is irritating your mouth, you can use dental wax or sugar-free gum to cover the area temporarily.

This isn’t a solution for reattaching the crown but can protect your gums and the rest of your mouth from sharp edges until you can get to a dentist.