A broken dental crown can be stressful and uncomfortable, but staying calm and knowing what to do can help protect your tooth and prevent further damage. Whether your crown cracked, chipped, or completely came off, quick action is key to avoid complications like infection or sensitivity. This guide walks you through five clear steps to take right after your dental crown breaks.
Assess the Damage Carefully
The first thing to do is examine the crown and the tooth beneath it. Take a close look to see if the crown is still partly attached or if it has fallen out entirely. Also, check if there are any sharp edges or pieces that could hurt your tongue or gums.
- If the crown is cracked but still mostly in place, avoid chewing on that side.
- If the crown is loose or completely off, handle it carefully and keep it safe if you find it.
- Notice if the exposed tooth feels sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure.
Understanding the extent of the damage helps you decide how urgently to seek dental care. Avoid touching the broken crown or the tooth too much, as this can worsen the situation.
Manage Discomfort and Protect Your Tooth
Once you know the condition of your dental crown and tooth, the next step is to reduce pain and protect the area.
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to keep the area clean and soothe irritation.
- If the exposed tooth feels sensitive, avoid very hot, cold, or sugary foods.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to help ease any discomfort.
- Cover sharp or rough edges with dental wax or sugar-free chewing gum to prevent cuts in your mouth.
- Do not attempt to fix or glue the crown yourself, as improper handling can cause further damage.
Taking these precautions can help you stay comfortable until you get professional care.
Save the Broken Pieces
If the dental crown has come off or broken into pieces, saving those fragments is very important.
- Find the pieces and rinse them gently with water.
- Avoid scrubbing or using any chemicals to clean them.
- Store the pieces in a small container filled with either milk or a saline solution to keep them moist.
- If you can’t find the pieces, don’t worry, but bring this up with your dentist during your visit.
Keeping the crown fragments intact gives your dentist a better chance to repair or reuse the crown, potentially saving time and costs.
Contact Your Dentist Immediately
After taking initial care steps, your next move is to reach out to your emergency dentist in Round Rock without delay.
- Explain the situation clearly; when and how the crown broke, any pain, and whether you have the crown pieces.
- Ask if they can see you for an emergency appointment.
- Adhere to their guidance on how to protect your tooth until your visit.
Prompt communication with your dentist prevents complications like infections or further damage to the tooth.
Follow Professional Advice and Prepare for Repair
Once you see your dentist, they will evaluate the damage and recommend the best course of action.
- Sometimes, the crown can be repaired or re-cemented if it is mostly intact.
- If the crown is severely damaged, your dentist may suggest making a new one.
- In certain situations, if the underlying tooth is damaged or shows any signs of infection, further treatments, such as root canal therapy may be required.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully to promote healing and avoid issues.
- Keep all follow-up appointments and maintain good oral hygiene.
By cooperating with your dental care provider, you can restore your smile and protect your dental health efficiently.
A broken dental crown may feel overwhelming at first, but by acting quickly and following these steps, you can minimise discomfort and prevent further problems. Always keep your dentist’s contact handy for emergencies, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help right away.