If your dental crown has sort of fallen out, you might be asking yourself if you really need an emergency dentist. When a crown is gone, the tooth underneath can end up exposed, and that can lead to sensitivity or a bit of discomfort.
Even though a missing crown isn’t always a huge dental crisis, it’s wise to call a dentist in Norwich for guidance and try to schedule an appointment soon.
Why Do Dental Crowns Fall Out?
A crown can end up loose or, I don’t know, just fall out because of a few things like wear over time, or if the crown gets damaged in some way. Also, tooth decay that starts around the crown can weaken the fit, and sometimes the dental cement gets worn down or loses its hold. There can also be damage happening to the tooth underneath the crown, and biting on something hard like ice or a very crunchy item can make it worse.
A dentist can check the crown and also the tooth to figure out why it became loose in the first place.
Is a Lost Dental Crown a Dental Emergency?
The urgency really depends on your symptoms.
You might need urgent dental care in Norwich if, for example, you have really severe pain, or maybe the tooth beneath is broken. Also, if there are sharp edges that are constantly cutting your mouth, or if you’ve got noticeable swelling. Another situation is if the crown has come out after an accident.
If you do not have these severe signs, then don’t rush into emergency; just contact your dentist instead to set up the next suitable appointment.
What Should You Do If Your Crown Falls Out?
When your dental crown falls off, do a few things real quick. First, put the crown somewhere safe, like in a clean container or small case, not just loose around. Next, try not to chew on that side for now; it can make things more irritated. Make sure the area stays clean; gently rinse as usual, but don’t scrub. Also, don’t use household glue or random adhesive to reattach it; seriously, it can cause trouble. Then contact your dentist as soon as you can for proper guidance. And please avoid forcing the crown back onto the tooth, even if it seems like it should fit.
Can You Put a Dental Crown Back Yourself?
You should not use household adhesives inside your mouth.
A dentist will assess whether the crown can be safely re-cemented or whether a replacement or further treatment is needed.
What Happens If You Leave a Lost Crown Untreated?
The underlying tooth may become more vulnerable to:
- Sensitivity
- Damage
- Further decay
- Fracture
Contacting a dental practice in Norwich promptly can help protect the exposed tooth.
What Will the Dentist Do?
Your dentist may:
- Examine the crown.
- Assess the underlying tooth.
- Check for damage or decay.
- Re-cement the crown if appropriate.
- Recommend a new crown if necessary.
The right treatment depends on the condition of both the crown and the tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I eat with a missing dental crown?
It is generally advisable to avoid chewing on the affected tooth until you have spoken to a dentist.
Can a lost crown cause tooth pain?
Yes. The underlying tooth may become sensitive or painful when exposed.
Is a loose crown an emergency?
A loose crown should be assessed by a dentist. The urgency depends on symptoms such as severe pain, swelling or dental trauma.
Need Help With a Lost Crown?
If your dental crown has fallen out or become loose, contact Pearl Dental Surgeries, a dental practice in Norwich, to discuss the next appropriate steps.