A dental crown may lose its secure hold if it is subjected to significant pressure, whether due to an injury or eating hard foods. Crowns are usually installed to strengthen teeth with cracks or other defects, providing protection and supporting the structure.
With proper care, crowns have a long service life. However, decay or other damage can lead to loosening and subsequent loss of the crown. In such a case, it is recommended to visit a dentist as soon as possible. What else should be considered?
Why do dental crowns fall out?
One of the reasons for the crown to separate may be an infectious process developing underneath it. In this situation, bacteria, accumulating under the crown, gradually destroy the tooth and disrupt its connection with the prosthesis.
In addition, the following factors may lead to the loss of a dental crown:
- Inaccurate installation of the prosthesis
- Insufficient fixation of the crown
- Bruxism (grinding of teeth)
- Regular consumption of sticky or hard foods
- Destruction of the tissue of the tooth on which the crown is fixed
The material of the crown also plays an important role. More reliable materials, such as metal, cope better with the chewing load. Porcelain is slightly inferior to metal in strength, and polymer materials are more susceptible to cracking.
What to do if a dental crown falls off?
If you feel that your crown has become loose or has fallen out, follow these steps:
- Gently remove the crown. Do not swallow it if it has become dislodged.
- Examine the crown and tooth. Check to see if the crown has broken or if a piece of the tooth has chipped.
- Contact your dentist immediately. Find out how to get an appointment to have the crown replaced as soon as possible. Be prepared to describe the condition of the crown and tooth in detail.
- Gently clean the fallen crown and place it in a small bag or container. This will help prevent damage to the crown and make it easier to reattach.
- Protect the tooth until your appointment. Use dental wax, a small piece of gauze, or temporary cement. Exposed nerves and tooth tissue are at risk for decay, so try not to chew on that side.
- Be mindful of your diet. Even when using a temporary crown, avoid hard, chewy, sticky, and crunchy foods. Extremely hot foods can soften the temporary material, and very cold foods can cause tooth pain.
- Bring the crown with you to your appointment. Your dentist will evaluate whether it can be re-installed. If the crown is damaged, a new one will be made for you.
How to Minimize the Risk of Dental Crown Falling Out?
To ensure that your crown lasts a long time and is secure, take the following precautions:
- Avoid eating hard foods and sticky foods such as toffee or ice.
- Perform good oral hygiene, brush your teeth in the morning and evening, and don’t forget to floss.
- Use a dental brush to clean the space between the crown and the gum.
- If you suffer from bruxism, use special mouth guards to prevent grinding your teeth.
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