Posted on 11/1/2024 by Revive Dental and Implant Center
Losing a dental crown can be a frustrating and inconvenient experience. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to address the situation and restore your smile.
Understanding Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns serve many purposes, including:
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Restoring a tooth's shape and size
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Improving a tooth's strength and function
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Protecting a tooth from further damage
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Enhancing the appearance of a tooth
Dental crowns are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, or metal. They are custom-made to fit your specific tooth and can last for many years with proper care.
What to Do if You Lose a Crown
If you lose a dental crown, it's important to stay calm and take the following steps:
1. Locate the crown: If possible, try to find the crown. Rinse it off with water and store it in a safe place.
2. Call your dentist: As soon as possible, contact your dentist's office and inform them about the situation. They will schedule an appointment to examine the tooth and discuss your treatment options.
3. Protect the exposed tooth: Until your appointment, you can cover the exposed tooth with temporary dental cement or over-the-counter dental wax. This will help to protect the tooth from sensitivity and further damage.
4. Avoid certain foods: While waiting for your appointment, avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could further damage the tooth or dislodge the temporary covering.
Treatment Options
When you visit your dentist, they will assess the situation and discuss the best course of treatment. Options may include:
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Recementing the crown: If the crown is intact and the underlying tooth is healthy, your dentist may be able to simply recement the crown.
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Repairing the crown: If the crown is damaged, your dentist may be able to repair it and recement it.
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Creating a new crown: If the crown cannot be salvaged, your dentist will need to create a new crown. This will involve taking impressions of your tooth and sending them to a dental lab for fabrication.
Prevention Tips
To prevent future crown loss, it's important to practice good oral hygiene and follow your dentist's instructions. Here are some tips:
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Brush and floss regularly: This will help to remove plaque and bacteria that can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease, which can weaken the tooth and compromise the crown.
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Avoid biting on hard objects: Chewing on ice, hard candy, or other hard objects can put stress on the crown and cause it to fracture or dislodge.
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Wear a nightguard: If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a nightguard can help to protect your crowns from damage.
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See your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health and detecting any problems early on.
Conclusion
Losing a dental crown can be a frustrating experience, but it's important to remember that there are solutions available. By following the steps outlined above and practicing good oral care, you can restore your smile and prevent future problems. If you have any questions or concerns about your dental crown, don't hesitate to talk to your dentist.
Dental Implants Charleston, WV | Revive Dental & Implant Center At Revive Dental and Implant Center in Charleston, WV, we prioritize patient care with a skilled team and advanced technology to ensure your dental needs are met. Revive Dental and Implant Center, 4803 MacCorkle Avenue SE, Charleston, WV 25304 | (304) 467-4265 | revivedentalimplantcenters.com | 12/10/2024 | Tags: dental implants Charleston WV |
Losing a dental crown can be a frustrating and inconvenient experience. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to address the situation and restore your smile.