Losing a temporary crown is a common dental mishap, and while it can be unsettling, it's usually not a cause for major panic. This guide will walk you through what to do if your temporary crown falls out, offering practical advice and answering frequently asked questions.
What Should I Do If My Temporary Crown Falls Out?
First, don't panic! Take a deep breath. The most crucial step is to locate the crown. If you find it, rinse it gently with clean water and try to store it in a safe place, ideally in a container with a small amount of water or saline solution. This prevents it from drying out or becoming damaged, potentially making it easier for your dentist to re-cement it.
Next, contact your dentist's office immediately. Explain the situation clearly and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to manage the situation until your appointment:
- Examine the area: Carefully check the area where the crown was placed. Is there any significant pain or bleeding? If you experience significant pain or discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help. If there's bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze pad.
- Avoid chewing on that side: Try to avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the temporary crown fell out to prevent further damage to the tooth or surrounding gum tissue. Stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing.
- Avoid using dental floss: Do not attempt to floss around the affected area as you could further irritate the gums.
How Long Can I Go Without a Temporary Crown?
Ideally, you should get your temporary crown replaced as soon as possible. The longer you go without it, the greater the risk of:
- Tooth sensitivity: Your exposed tooth becomes more vulnerable to temperature changes and potentially acidic foods and drinks.
- Infection: The open area can increase the risk of infection or irritation of the gum tissue.
- Tooth damage: The underlying tooth structure might become more vulnerable to damage or decay without the protective layer of the crown.
While a day or two might be manageable, it's best to contact your dentist within 24 hours.
Can I Put My Temporary Crown Back In?
While it might be tempting to try and re-seat the temporary crown yourself, it's generally not recommended. Improperly placing the crown back in could damage the tooth or cause further problems. Leave it to your dentist to handle the replacement.
What Causes a Temporary Crown to Fall Out?
Several factors can contribute to a temporary crown falling out:
- Trauma: A blow to the mouth or accidental biting down on a hard object can dislodge the crown.
- Inadequate cement: If the temporary cement wasn't properly applied, the crown may not adhere securely.
- Excessive biting force: Chewing on very hard foods can put undue pressure on the temporary crown.
- Crown wear and tear: Over time, the temporary crown may become loose or damaged.
Your dentist can discuss these potential causes with you during your appointment.
Will I Need a New Temporary Crown?
In most cases, your dentist will replace your fallen temporary crown. They may check the underlying tooth and possibly adjust it before re-cementing a new temporary crown or, if the permanent crown is ready, directly place that instead.
What Happens at My Appointment?
When you see your dentist, they will thoroughly examine the affected tooth and surrounding tissues. They will assess the condition of your tooth and determine the best course of action, which typically involves placing a new temporary crown or, if the permanent crown is ready, proceeding with its placement. They might take x-rays to ensure there isn't any underlying damage.
Remember, prompt action is key to preventing complications when your temporary crown falls out. Contact your dentist immediately for guidance and to schedule an appointment. They're the best resource to ensure your oral health is protected.
