What to Do When Your Dental Crowns Break: A Guide

Nothing can be more frustrating than a broken dental crown, especially if you have an upcoming special occasion or important meeting. But don’t worry—you’re not alone! Broken dental crowns are a common issue that many people face. The good news is that, with the right approach, fixing them can be easy and hassle-free. In this post, we’ll walk you through the four essential steps for dealing with broken dental crowns so that you can get back to flashing your dazzling smile in no time!

4 Essential Steps for Dealing with Broken Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to cover the tooth and restore its shape and size. A crown can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth or to protect a tooth that has been damaged by decay.

When a dental crown becomes loose or falls off, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, there are some steps you can take to protect your tooth and keep the crown from becoming further damaged:

Step 1: Contact Your Dentist Immediately

If you have a broken dental crown, the first step is to contact your dentist immediately. Your dentist will be able to determine the best course of action for your particular situation. In some cases, the broken crown can be re-cemented or replaced. In other cases, more extensive treatment may be necessary. Regardless of the treatment required, it is important to seek professional dental care as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your teeth and gums.

Step 2: Keep the Broken Piece of the Crown

If the broken piece of the crown is small, you can try to reattach it using dental adhesive. First, clean the broken piece and the inside of the crown. Then, apply a thin layer of adhesive to both surfaces. Place the broken piece back into the crown and hold it in place for a few minutes until the adhesive sets.

If the broken piece is too large to be reattached, or if the adhesive doesn’t hold, you’ll need to have a new crown made. In the meantime, you can cover the exposed tooth with temporary cement or denture adhesive.

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment with Your Dentist

If you have a broken dental crown, the first thing you should do is contact your dentist. They will likely need to see you for an appointment so that they can assess the damage and determine the best course of treatment. In some cases, the crown can be repaired or replaced. However, if the damage is more severe, you may need to have the tooth extracted. Your dentist will be able to provide you with more information about your specific situation.

Step 4: Possible Solutions for Repairs

There are a few possible solutions for repairing broken dental crowns. The first option is to try to glue the crown back in place. This might work if the crown is only slightly loose or if the tooth is not severely decayed. If the crown is severely damaged, it will need to be replaced. Another option is to have a new crown made. This can be done by your dentist or by a specialty laboratory. The new crown will be made to fit snugly over your existing tooth.

Conclusion

Dealing with a broken dental crown can be very stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. With the four essential steps outlined here, you can take action to protect your tooth and repair the damage that has been done. Start by visiting your dentist right away, so they can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action for restoring your smile. From there, follow their instructions and make sure to practice good oral hygiene habits at home in order to maintain healthy teeth and gums moving forward. You’ll be smiling again before you know it!

FAQs:

Q: What are the signs that a dental crown is broken?

A: If you notice that your tooth feels different than usual or you have pain when biting down, it could be a sign that your dental crown is broken. Other signs include visible cracks or chips in the crown or gaps between the crown and your tooth.

Q: How can I fix a broken dental crown?

A: If your dental crown is broken, you will need to see a dentist to have it repaired or replaced. In some cases, the dentist may be able to simply re-cement the crown back into place. If the damage is more severe, you may need to have a new dental crown made.

Q: How can I prevent my dental crown from breaking?

A: There are several things you can do to help prevent your dental crown from breaking, including avoiding hard foods and using a soft-bristled toothbrush when brushing your teeth. You should also see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings to help keep your teeth healthy and strong.