A dental crown, often called a cap, is a prosthetic device designed to fully encase a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are bonded to the prepared tooth structure using specialized dental cement. They can occasionally become loose or detach entirely, usually because the bonding agent has degraded, decay has formed underneath, or trauma has compromised the seal. Recognizing this common dental issue requires prompt attention.
Immediate Steps When a Crown Becomes Loose
The first action upon feeling a crown loosen is to carefully remove it from the mouth to prevent accidental swallowing or aspiration. Once retrieved, the crown should be cleaned gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove old dental cement or debris. Handling the crown with care ensures its structural integrity is maintained for reattachment.
The exposed tooth underneath the crown, often called the abutment, also requires immediate, gentle cleaning to minimize bacterial buildup and infection. This structure may be sensitive to temperature changes or air exposure. The crown should be placed in a small, clean container, such as a zipper-lock bag or a pill box, to protect it from damage and ensure it is not lost before the dental appointment.
Temporary At-Home Reattachment Methods
Securing the crown temporarily until a dentist can be seen can be accomplished using specialized, non-toxic dental cement kits available at pharmacies. Before attempting reattachment, both the inside of the crown and the surface of the underlying tooth must be completely dry. Moisture will prevent the temporary adhesive from bonding properly, so patting both surfaces dry with a clean cotton swab or gauze is necessary.
The temporary dental cement should be applied sparingly and evenly inside the clean, dry crown, forming a thin layer that covers the internal surface. Applying too much material can prevent the crown from seating correctly and may push excess cement onto the gumline, causing irritation. Confirm the material is specifically designed for temporary dental use, as these products are biocompatible and safe for oral application.
The crown must be carefully placed back onto the tooth in its correct orientation, ensuring it sits flush against the gum line. Once aligned, gently bite down for a short period to fully seat the crown and confirm proper occlusion (how the upper and lower teeth meet). This gentle pressure helps distribute the temporary cement evenly around the abutment tooth structure.
Allowing the recommended curing time for the temporary material is important for achieving a stable hold, usually ranging from five to fifteen minutes depending on the product. Do not use household adhesives, such as superglue, as these products contain toxic chemicals that are not safe for the oral environment and can permanently damage the tooth or the crown material.
Essential Precautions While Waiting for Dental Care
Whether the crown has been successfully reattached or is being stored, specific dietary and oral hygiene adjustments are necessary to protect the underlying tooth structure. Strictly avoid chewing on the side of the mouth where the loose or missing crown is located to minimize pressure on the vulnerable abutment. This practice helps prevent further damage, such as fracturing the remaining tooth structure.
Dietary restrictions should focus on eliminating hard, sticky, or crunchy foods, which could dislodge a temporary fixation or cause discomfort. If the abutment tooth is sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste can provide relief when gently applied. Monitoring the exposed gum tissue for signs of swelling or redness is also advised, as these symptoms can indicate a developing infection or irritation.
Professional Dental Repair
Even if a temporary fix feels secure, scheduling an appointment with a dental professional immediately is necessary because temporary materials are not designed for long-term function. The dentist will begin by thoroughly cleaning both the internal surface of the crown and the prepared tooth to ensure a sterile environment for permanent bonding. An examination will check for any new decay that may have developed on the abutment tooth, which is a common reason for crown failure.
If the underlying tooth structure is sound and the crown is intact, the dentist will use a specialized, moisture-resistant permanent dental cement to re-bond the restoration. This professional-grade cement creates a durable, long-lasting seal. If significant decay is present or the crown is fractured, the dentist may need to perform further restorative treatment before placing a new crown.