A dental crown coming loose or falling off requires professional attention, but temporary reattachment can protect the underlying tooth structure until you see a dentist. This is an emergency measure designed to prevent the exposed tooth, known as the abutment, from shifting or sustaining damage. The goal of this temporary fix is to maintain the space and prevent increased sensitivity, not to create a permanent bond. Treat this as a short-term solution; a dental professional must re-cement the crown properly as soon as possible.
Gathering Supplies and Preparing the Tooth
Secure an over-the-counter temporary dental cement kit specifically made for this purpose, available at most pharmacies. If a dedicated kit is unavailable, a small amount of denture adhesive can serve as a last-resort option due to its non-permanent, non-toxic nature. Never use household glues, such as superglue or epoxy. These products are toxic, not designed for oral use, and their permanent bond makes professional removal and repair nearly impossible.
Thoroughly clean both the inside of the crown and the tooth structure it covers. Use a toothbrush and warm water to gently scrub any remaining old cement or food debris from the inside of the crown. Gently clean the exposed abutment tooth with a soft brush and floss to ensure a clean surface. After cleaning, the area must be completely dry, as saliva interferes with the temporary cement’s ability to adhere.
Step-by-Step Temporary Reattachment
Before applying adhesive, practice seating the crown without cement to ensure you know the correct orientation and that it slides fully into place. This prevents misaligning the crown when the cement is active, which can affect your bite. To prepare the cement, follow the specific instructions on your temporary repair kit, which may involve mixing a powder and liquid or squeezing a pre-mixed paste. The material is designed to set quickly once it contacts moisture in the mouth.
Apply only a small, thin bead of the prepared cement or denture adhesive around the inner margin of the crown. Ensure no material is placed near the biting surface or the crown’s top, as excess adhesive prevents the crown from fully seating. Carefully align the crown, pressing it gently onto the abutment tooth in the practiced orientation. Once the crown feels securely seated, bite down gently for a few seconds to fully settle it into its correct position.
Immediately after seating the crown, remove all excess temporary cement that has squeezed out around the edges. Use a damp cotton swab, a clean toothpick, or floss to clear the material from the gum line and the spaces between the teeth. Removing this excess material prevents gum irritation and ensures the reattached crown does not trap bacteria. Allow the cement to set fully according to the product’s directions before closing your mouth or introducing moisture.
Immediate Next Steps and Warnings
With the crown temporarily reattached, contact your dentist for an appointment, ideally within 24 to 48 hours, for permanent re-cementation. The temporary material is weak by design and cannot withstand normal chewing forces for long periods. Avoid chewing on the side of the mouth with the temporarily fixed crown to prevent dislodging it again.
Dietary modifications are necessary to protect the temporary bond from failure. Avoid hard, crunchy foods that could fracture the crown or the underlying tooth, and sticky foods like caramel or taffy that could pull the crown off. Refrain from consuming very hot or very cold items, as the exposed tooth structure may be sensitive to temperature extremes.
If the crown is cracked or visibly damaged, or if the underlying abutment tooth feels sharp, painful, or has a noticeable cavity, do not attempt reattachment. Seating a damaged crown could cause further injury or trap bacteria against a compromised tooth surface. Keep the crown safe and contact your dentist immediately, as the exposed tooth needs professional assessment before re-cementation.