A dental crown is meant to be a long-lasting solution for restoring a damaged or weakened tooth. It’s designed to fit securely, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently without worry. But what if your crown suddenly feels loose or worse—falls off completely?
While this isn’t something that happens often, it’s not unheard of. A loose or lost dental crown in Concord is a problem that needs immediate attention, but in most cases, it can be fixed. Understanding why it happens and what to do next can help you act quickly and prevent further complications.
Why Do Dental Crowns Fall Off?
A well-placed crown should last 10-15 years or longer, but several factors can cause it to loosen or detach earlier than expected.
1. Weak or Worn-Out Dental Cement
Crowns are secured with dental cement, which naturally weakens over time. If the bond between the crown and the tooth starts to break down, the crown may become loose and eventually fall off.
2. Decay Under the Crown
Even though a crown is artificial, the natural tooth underneath is still vulnerable to decay. If bacteria get under the crown and cause tooth decay, the structure supporting the crown can weaken, making it more likely to come loose.
3. Excessive Pressure from Chewing or Grinding
Biting down on hard foods (like nuts, ice, or sticky candy) can put extra stress on a crown. If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), this constant pressure can also contribute to loosening or cracking the crown over time.
4. Poor Crown Fit or Placement
If a crown wasn’t fitted correctly, it may not bond securely to the tooth. Over time, small gaps can form, allowing bacteria and food particles to enter, which weakens the crown’s hold.
5. Trauma or Impact
A sudden accident, sports injury, or biting into something unexpectedly hard can knock a crown loose, especially if the impact is strong.
What Should You Do If Your Dental Crown Falls Off?
A lost crown isn’t necessarily a dental emergency, but it does need to be addressed quickly to protect the exposed tooth. Here’s what to do:
1. Find and Clean the Crown
If the crown is still intact, carefully rinse it with warm water and place it in a safe container. In some cases, your dentist may be able to re-cement it back in place without needing a replacement.
2. Check the Tooth
Look at the exposed tooth in the mirror. If it’s painful, sensitive, or appears broken, avoid eating on that side and keep the area clean.
3. Avoid Chewing on That Side
Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing where the crown was. If the tooth is sensitive, you can apply clove oil (found in pharmacies) to help with discomfort.
4. Call Your Dentist
Even if you’re not in pain, a missing crown leaves your tooth vulnerable to further damage. Contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule a repair.
Can You Put a Crown Back on at Home?
While there are temporary dental cement kits available at drugstores, it’s best to avoid DIY fixes unless absolutely necessary. A dentist will ensure the crown is properly cleaned, fitted, and secured, preventing future complications.
If you can’t get to a dentist right away and need a temporary solution, you can:
- Use temporary dental cement (available at pharmacies).
- Avoid using glue or adhesives that aren’t meant for dental use.
- Be extra careful while eating or drinking until you get professional treatment.
Need Help with Your Dental Crown in Concord?
If your dental crown has fallen off or if it feels loose, don’t wait to get it fixed. At Concord Advanced Dentistry, we specialize in placing, restoring, and repairing dental crowns to keep your smile healthy and strong. Contact us today for a consultation.
