A dental crown is identical to a cap put over a weak or broken tooth. It restores the shape, strength, and function of the tooth. But what if your crown comes out or gets chipped? It can be painful, sometimes even hurt, and it’s only natural to freak out if you have no idea what to do next.
Don’t worry—this blog will guide you step-by-step. We are here to help you handle the situation with confidence, from recognizing the warning signs to taking care of the problem.
What Causes a Dental Crown to Become Loose or Damaged?
Crowns are created to last, but they can be worn off or damaged by normal wear and tear or by surprise accidents. The reasons include
- Grinding or clenching your teeth (also called bruxism)
- Biting down on hard foods like ice or hard candy
- Tooth decay under the crown
- Worn-out dental cement
- Injury or trauma to the mouth
Even if your crown has withstood the test of time for decades, accidents can still happen. That’s the reason that visiting a dentist regularly is so crucial. A checkup can catch minor problems early on before they become gigantic headaches down the road.
Symptoms of a Loose Crown
You should be aware of when a thing may not fit well with your crown. The sooner you discover the problem, the simpler it is to correct.
The following are some indications that your crown is loose or damaged:
- The crown feels like it’s moving or shifting
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold drinks
- A strange or bad taste near the crown (which could mean decay)
- Swelling or redness in the gums around the crown
If you experience any of these symptoms, you need to visit your dentist. Getting treated early will prevent worse problems like infection or even the loss of the tooth.
What To Do If Your Crown Becomes Loose or Falls Off
If your crown has come loose or already dropped out, do not worry. This is what you can do until you visit your dentist in Carstairs :
- Remove It Carefully: If it’s still in your mouth but not secure, take it out carefully to avoid swallowing it or choking.
- Keep It Safe: Place the crown in a clean container and bring it to your appointment. Your dentist may be able to reuse it if it’s still in good condition.
- Avoid Chewing on That Side: Stick to soft foods and avoid using the side of your mouth where the crown was.
- Gently Clean the Area: Brush gently around the tooth and rinse with warm salt water to help keep it clean.
- Temporary Fix (Optional): If you can’t see a dentist right away and the tooth is sensitive, over-the-counter dental cement may help protect it temporarily.
These are short-term solutions. Only a dentist can provide you with an actual solution and be able to maintain your tooth’s health.
Treatment Options: What Happens at the Dental Clinic?
If you’ve had dental crowns in Carstairs, it can help alleviate some of the anxiety about knowing what to expect. Your local dental team themselves can walk you through the experience with honesty and discretion.
- Re-cementing the Crown: If the crown and the tooth underneath are still in good shape, the dentist may be able to simply clean and reattach the crown.
- Replacing the Crown: If the crown is damaged or doesn’t fit properly anymore, you might need a new one.
- Treating the Tooth: If there’s decay or damage to the tooth under the crown, that will need to be treated before putting a crown back on.
Whether it’s a quick fix or a full replacement, the important thing is that the problem gets handled by a professional.
Protecting Your Crowns for the Future
Once your crown is repaired or replaced, you’ll want to keep it in great shape. These tips can help:
- Avoid chewing on hard objects like pens or ice
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth at night.
- Keep up with brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings.
- Don’t use your teeth to open packages or bottles.
Crowns can last many years with the right care, so treating them kindly pays off in the long run.
Smile Confidently Again at Mountain View Smiles
If you think your crown might be loose or damaged, don’t wait until it gets worse. Mountain View Smiles is here to help you feel comfortable and cared for. Our friendly team of dentists is ready to help you restore your smile and protect your oral health for the future.
Need an appointment? Call us or book online today. At Mountain View Smiles, we make your comfort a priority because everyone deserves to smile without worry.