What To Do If Your Dental Crown Is Broken?

A broken dental crown can be alarming, but it is a common dental issue that can be addressed with prompt and appropriate action. Although they are durable, but not invincible and can crack, chip, or fall off. It is due to various reasons like biting on hard foods, trauma, or wear and tear over time. Knowing how to handle the situation until you see a dentist can prevent further damage and discomfort.

Broken Dental Crown: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here is a comprehensive guide on what to do if your crown breaks:

Assess the Situation

As soon as you notice your dental crown is broken, inspect the area. If the crown is still partially intact, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. If the crown has fallen off, retrieve it and store it in a clean container to bring it to your dentist. This first step helps avoid further damage to the exposed tooth and prevents you from accidentally swallowing or losing the crown.

Examine your tooth for sharp edges or sensitivity. If the tooth or crown has jagged parts, be careful, as these can cut the inside of your mouth. You can temporarily cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugarless gum to prevent injury to your soft tissues.

Contact Your Dentist

Once you have assessed the damage, the next crucial step is to contact your dentist. Explain the situation in detail so your dental practitioner can determine the urgency of the case. They may ask you to consult immediately if the tooth is at risk of infection or further damage. In some cases, the dental professional may provide advice on temporary relief measures if you are unable to visit right away.

Temporary Pain and Swelling Management

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, there are several things you can do to manage it temporarily before your dental appointment:

• Rinse with Salt Water: A warm saltwater rinse can help cleanse the area and reduce swelling.

• Over-the-counter Pain Relief: Pain relievers can alleviate discomfort. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage.

• Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling if necessary.

Avoid Eating on the Affected Side

To prevent further damage to the tooth or the broken crown, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Limit your diet to softer foods such as soup, mashed potatoes, or yogurt. Hard or sticky foods can worsen the condition, damaging the tooth further or dislodging any remaining parts of the crown.
Protect the Exposed Tooth

In some cases, if the underlying tooth is exposed, it can be quite sensitive. Cover the exposed tooth with dental wax or temporary dental cement, which can be found at most pharmacies. This temporary fix can protect the tooth until the broken one is repaired or replaced with a new crown.

Repair or Replacement Options

Your dentist will assess whether the crown can be repaired or needs to be replaced. Small chips or cracks can often be repaired without needing a full replacement. However, a full replacement may be necessary if the crown has a large fracture, is completely dislodged, or if the underlying tooth structure is compromised.

• Repair: For minor damage, your dentist might be able to bond the broken piece back onto the crown or use composite resin to restore the integrity of the crown.

• Replacement: If the crown is beyond repair, a replacement will involve removing the damaged crown and taking new impressions. This helps in creating a custom-made replacement. A temporary crown may be placed until the permanent crown is ready.

Long-Term Care and Prevention

To prevent future crown breakage, follow these care tips for long lasting result of your crowns:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: To stop plaque from accumulating, floss often and brush twice a day. This can weaken the bond between the crown and the tooth.

• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Chewing ice, hard candies, or using your teeth to open packaging can put excessive pressure on crowns and cause them to crack or loosen.

• Regular Dental Checkups: Routine dental visits helps to check the integrity of your crown and identify any potential issues early.

• Address Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Ask your dentist about a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth. By doing this, you shield your crown from needless deterioration.

A broken dental crown is an inconvenience, but it is manageable with the right steps. By acting quickly and following the advice of your dentist, you can minimize discomfort and prevent further damage. Remember to keep the broken crown if it falls off and to avoid chewing on the affected side. With proper care and timely dental treatment, your smile can be restored in no time.

For more personalized advice one restorative dentistry in Reno or crown restoration services, visit Andresen Prosthodontics, where we specialize in providing durable and aesthetic dental crowns to restore your smile’s functionality and appearance. Contact us today for expert care for dental crowns in Reno.