Lost Crown or Filling? What You Need to Do
Posted on 8/1/2024 by Doctor Krajekian |
 Uh oh! You bit into something hard and felt a sudden sharp pain. Or maybe you were flossing and noticed a gap where a filling used to be. Whatever the case, losing a dental crown or filling is a common experience, but it can be stressful and confusing.
Here's the good news: restoration dentistry offers solutions to get your smile back on track. But first, let's understand the difference between crowns and fillings.
Dental Crowns vs. Fillings: What's the Difference?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped "cap" that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth. It's used when a tooth is extensively damaged, weakened, or has undergone a root canal. Crowns restore the tooth's function and appearance.
A dental filling, on the other hand, is used to repair smaller cavities or cracks in a tooth. Fillings are made of various materials like composite resin, amalgam, or gold and are bonded directly to the tooth.
What to Do If You Lose a Crown or Filling
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation:
Don't panic! Losing a crown or filling is certainly inconvenient, but it's not an emergency. Take a deep breath and examine the situation.
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Crown: If the crown is intact, try to place it back on the tooth. If it fits snugly, you can temporarily secure it with dental cement (available at most pharmacies). However, if it doesn't fit properly or is broken, don't force it. |
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Filling: If the filling is small and the remaining tooth structure is intact, you may not experience any pain or sensitivity. However, if the filling is large or the remaining tooth structure is compromised, you might feel sharp edges or sensitivity to hot and cold. |
2. Contact Your Dentist:
Regardless of the situation, call your dentist as soon as possible. Explain what happened and schedule an appointment. Your dentist will assess the damage and determine the best course of action.
3. Manage Discomfort:
If you're experiencing pain or sensitivity, there are ways to manage discomfort until your appointment:
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Crown: If the crown is lost, cover the exposed area with sugar-free chewing gum or dental wax. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. |
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Filling: If the filling is lost and you're experiencing sensitivity, try using a sensitive toothpaste or rinsing with warm salt water. Avoid hot or cold foods and drinks. |
4. Prevent Future Occurrences:
While losing a crown or filling can happen to anyone, there are ways to minimize the risk:
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Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. |
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Avoid biting on hard objects: This includes ice, hard candy, and even popcorn kernels. |
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Wear a mouthguard: If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can protect your teeth from damage. |
Remember, losing a crown or filling is not the end of the world. With prompt action and the expertise of your dentist, you can get your smile back to its healthy and beautiful state.
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