A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Swallowing a dental crown can be unsettling, but it is a relatively common occurrence. In most instances, a swallowed crown will pass through the body without complications.
The Body’s Natural Process
When a dental crown is swallowed, it travels through the digestive system. It moves down the esophagus, the tube connecting the throat to the stomach. From there, it enters the stomach, where it typically remains for several hours, around 12 hours, before moving into the small intestine.
The crown then progresses through the small intestine and into the large intestine. The entire passage through the digestive tract usually takes 24 to 72 hours, though it can occasionally take longer, sometimes even weeks.
Most dental crowns are small and smooth, which facilitates their passage through the gastrointestinal tract. They are also made from biocompatible materials like gold, stainless steel, or porcelain, which do not corrode or release harmful byproducts within the body.
Signs of Concern
While most swallowed crowns pass without incident, certain symptoms indicate a potential problem. Difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or choking immediately after swallowing could mean the crown has entered the airway instead of the digestive tract, which requires immediate medical attention. This is known as aspiration.
Once in the digestive system, other symptoms might arise, including chest pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, or a sensation of something stuck in the throat or chest. Blood in stool or an inability to pass stool are also concerning signs, suggesting possible obstruction or injury to the digestive tract.
When Professional Help is Needed
If any concerning symptoms appear after swallowing a dental crown, seek immediate medical attention. Breathing difficulties or choking, in particular, necessitate emergency care.
For symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, vomiting, or blood in stool, a visit to an urgent care facility or emergency room is advisable. Medical professionals may perform diagnostic procedures such as X-rays to locate the crown within the body, especially if it is metallic. If the crown is causing an obstruction or has sharp edges, an endoscopy might be performed. This procedure involves inserting a thin tube with a camera to visualize and potentially retrieve the object. Surgical intervention is rarely needed, occurring in less than 1% of cases.