What if my temporary crown falls out?
Losing a temporary crown can be a distressing experience, especially if it happens unexpectedly. Temporary crowns are often placed on teeth after a dental procedure to protect the tooth and provide a natural appearance until a permanent crown is ready. However, they are not as durable as permanent crowns and can sometimes come loose or fall out. In this article, we will discuss what to do if your temporary crown falls out and how to prevent it from happening again.
In the following paragraphs, we will cover the following topics:
1. Understanding why temporary crowns fall out
2. Immediate steps to take if your temporary crown falls out
3. How to care for your temporary crown to prevent it from falling out
4. When to seek professional dental help
Understanding why temporary crowns fall out
Temporary crowns can fall out for several reasons. One of the most common reasons is that they are not as securely cemented as permanent crowns. Temporary crowns are usually bonded to the tooth using a temporary cement, which is not as strong as the permanent cement used for permanent crowns. Other reasons include:
– Eating hard or sticky foods that can dislodge the crown
– Brushing or flossing too vigorously around the tooth
– Grinding or clenching your teeth, which can put excessive pressure on the crown
Immediate steps to take if your temporary crown falls out
If your temporary crown falls out, here are the immediate steps you should take:
1. Do not panic. Remain calm and assess the situation.
2. Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to clean the area.
3. If the tooth feels sensitive, apply a small amount of toothpaste or dental cement to the exposed root to reduce sensitivity.
4. If you have a spare temporary crown, try to put it back in place. Use dental cement or a little bit of toothpaste to secure it temporarily.
5. Avoid eating or drinking anything until you can see a dentist.
How to care for your temporary crown to prevent it from falling out
To prevent your temporary crown from falling out, follow these tips:
– Avoid eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can dislodge the crown.
– Brush gently around the tooth and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
– Floss carefully around the tooth, being gentle to avoid dislodging the crown.
– If you grind or clench your teeth, wear a night guard to protect your teeth and the temporary crown.
When to seek professional dental help
If your temporary crown falls out, it is essential to see a dentist as soon as possible. Waiting too long can lead to complications, such as tooth decay or infection. The dentist will assess the situation and determine the best course of action. This may include re-cementing the temporary crown or providing a new one if necessary.
In conclusion, losing a temporary crown can be a challenging experience, but it is not an emergency situation. By understanding the reasons behind the crown’s fall and taking appropriate care, you can minimize the risk of it happening again. If your temporary crown does fall out, seek professional dental help promptly to ensure your tooth remains healthy and protected.
