A temporary crown dislodging from your tooth can be a stressful experience, exposing a sensitive prepared tooth beneath. This temporary shield protects the tooth and maintains the necessary space while the final restoration is fabricated. When the protective cap comes loose, many people consider using denture adhesive as a quick fix. This immediate solution must be weighed against the potential risks to the underlying tooth structure and the success of the final dental work.
Is Denture Adhesive Safe for Temporary Crowns?
Denture adhesive is not a medically sanctioned material for securing a temporary crown. Dental professionals advise against its use because it is specifically formulated for the soft tissue and acrylic surfaces of dentures, not the hard tooth structure. Using any non-dental material carries the primary risk of aspiration, especially while sleeping, since the bond is inherently weak and unreliable under chewing forces. The temporary crown requires a precise fit, and using an incorrect material introduces variables that can complicate your treatment.
Why Denture Adhesive Fails as a Proper Sealant
Denture adhesives are designed to create a cushion and temporary suction between a denture plate and gum tissue, not to provide a durable seal for a prepared tooth. The material’s pliable, water-soluble composition means it quickly breaks down in the wet environment of the mouth under chewing forces. This failure to seal the margin—the area where the crown meets the tooth—allows oral bacteria and saliva to leak into the space, creating a high risk of recurrent decay on the prepared tooth surface.
Furthermore, the thickness of the adhesive can cause the temporary crown to sit slightly higher, creating occlusal interference when biting down. This interference puts excessive force on the tooth and jaw joint, potentially causing discomfort or fracture of the prepared tooth. Denture adhesive is also difficult for the dentist to remove completely from the crown and tooth surface. Residue left behind can interfere with the chemical bond of the final, permanent cement, compromising the integrity of the restoration process.
Recommended Solutions for Re-cementing a Temporary Crown
The first step when a temporary crown falls out is to contact your dental office for an emergency appointment. If you cannot reach your dentist immediately, the only appropriate at-home solution is an over-the-counter temporary dental cement kit. These kits are specifically formulated for this scenario and are widely available at pharmacies and grocery stores. These materials are designed to be biocompatible, provide a secure seal, and be easily removable by your dentist.
When selecting an at-home kit, choose a product labeled as non-eugenol based. Eugenol, found in some older temporary cements, can chemically inhibit the bonding strength of the resin cements your dentist uses for the final permanent crown. Using a non-eugenol cement protects the prepared tooth without compromising the success of the upcoming permanent restoration. These kits offer a safer and more effective temporary hold than a general-purpose product like denture adhesive.
Immediate Steps When a Temporary Crown Falls Out
The moment the crown comes loose, carefully retrieve it to prevent swallowing or aspiration. The prepared tooth will likely be sensitive to temperature and air, so you should avoid chewing on that side of your mouth immediately. You need to thoroughly clean the inside of the temporary crown by gently removing any old cement residue, using a toothpick or a cotton swab. Rinse both the crown and your mouth with warm water, as the crown must be fully seated without interference from old material.
Once the crown and tooth are clean, apply only a minimal amount of the proper temporary dental cement inside the crown. A small bead around the margin is often sufficient. Carefully seat the crown back onto the prepared tooth, orienting it correctly to match your bite. Gently close your mouth to ensure the crown is not sitting too high, then apply slight pressure to set the cement. Contacting your dentist remains paramount, as they need to re-cement the temporary with professional materials to ensure the tooth remains protected and surrounding teeth do not shift.