A dental crown is a custom-fitted cap designed to cover a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength. The crown is secured to the underlying tooth structure with specialized dental cement, creating a seal that protects the tooth. The crown may become dislodged due to adhesive failure, new tooth decay beneath the crown, or trauma from biting hard objects. A dislodged crown leaves the underlying tooth exposed and vulnerable, which is why temporary home reattachment offers short-term protection and comfort. Any at-home fix is a stopgap measure, and professional dental care is necessary for a permanent resolution.
Immediate Steps After a Crown Falls Out
Locate the crown and carefully retrieve it, ensuring it is not swallowed or inhaled. Once recovered, gently rinse the crown with warm water to remove any debris or saliva from the inner surface. This prepares both the crown and the exposed tooth for temporary reattachment.
Inspect the inside of the crown to remove remnants of old cement, which may appear as hardened, light-colored material. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a toothpick to gently scrape this material away, as residual cement prevents the crown from seating correctly. The exposed tooth should also be gently cleaned using a soft toothbrush and warm water to clear away any food particles or plaque.
Examine the exposed tooth structure for severe damage, such as a fracture or a post that came out with the crown. The exposed tooth may be highly sensitive to air or temperature changes, indicating that the dentin or pulp is irritated. If the tooth appears visibly broken or if there is bleeding, do not attempt home reattachment; keep the crown safe until your dental appointment.
Choosing and Applying Temporary Dental Cement
For temporary reattachment, use an over-the-counter temporary dental cement kit, available at most pharmacies. These kits are specifically formulated to provide a short-term mechanical bond without damaging the tooth or crown. Avoid using household glues, such as superglue, which are toxic to oral tissues and can make professional reattachment impossible.
If a specialized kit is not immediately available, a small amount of zinc oxide-based temporary filling material or denture adhesive can be used as a less secure, very short-term alternative. Before applying any adhesive, ensure both the crown’s interior and the underlying tooth are as dry as possible, as moisture significantly weakens the bond of most dental cements. Use a clean tissue or cotton swab to gently pat the surfaces dry.
Apply a very small amount of the temporary cement evenly around the inner circumference of the crown, ensuring you do not overfill the cap. Too much cement will prevent the crown from seating fully and can trap bacteria. Carefully align the crown over the tooth, using a mirror to guide the placement, and gently push it back into position.
Once the crown is seated, gently bite down to ensure it aligns properly and feels comfortable in your normal bite. Hold the crown steady with gentle pressure for at least a minute to allow the cement to begin setting. Floss carefully around the newly reattached crown to remove any excess cement, taking care not to pull the crown loose. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and stick to soft foods until you see your dentist.
When Professional Intervention is Urgent
While temporary reattachment offers immediate relief, the seal achieved at home is imperfect and will not protect the tooth long-term from decay or fracture. Scheduling a dental appointment within a few days is necessary to have the crown professionally cleaned, assessed, and permanently re-cemented. However, certain symptoms indicate a more urgent situation that requires immediate professional attention.
Severe, throbbing pain that cannot be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers suggests significant pulp irritation or infection, and should be treated as a dental emergency. The presence of facial or gum swelling, a fever, or a foul odor or taste emanating from the area are strong indicators of an active infection that requires prompt evaluation and likely antibiotic treatment.
If the crown is broken, has sharp edges, or if you suspect you may have swallowed or aspirated it, seek immediate help. If the underlying tooth structure appears fractured or if you notice persistent bleeding, a dentist needs to assess the damage right away. Delaying professional care, even if the temporary fix feels secure, risks further damage and can complicate the final treatment.