Your dentist might give you a dental crown to replace weakened tooth enamel. This ceramic cap covers the entire surface of a tooth and seals into place with dental cement. It provides an effective shield to restore a tooth’s structure and protect it from further harm.
Dentists design dental crowns to be durable so that the fixtures do not interfere with oral function. However, a crown might break, crack, or dislodge from the tooth under abnormal pressure. If this happens, you will require urgent repair from your dentist to fix the damaged crown.
You can react more swiftly and efficiently if you know what to do ahead of this dental emergency. Read on to learn details about the actions you should take if you sustain damage to a dental crown.
Contact Your Dentist Immediately
If you break a dental crown, the underlying vulnerable tooth becomes exposed to external threats. You could face a high risk of decay, infection, or other problems in that tooth without proper protection from the crown. So you must call your dentist right away if you suspect an issue with your crown.
You might feel tempted to try an over-the-counter dental adhesive to fix the broken crown. But these products, when used improperly, may cause further problems for this fixture. Ask a dentist before trying this store-bought adhesive.
The dentist can also offer advice to manage pain and other discomforts in the immediate aftermath of this dental emergency. Do not delay contacting your dentist or you could face serious and irreversible dental damage.
Attend an Emergency Dental Evaluation
Your dentist will ask you to come to their office for an emergency evaluation to fix the broken crown. Bring the crown with you to the appointment if it is no longer covering the tooth.
The dentist will examine the crown, the affected tooth, and the rest of your smile to ascertain the extent of the damage. If the crown remains intact, they can place the crown back over the tooth and seal it into place again during this visit.
However, if the crown sustains too much damage, the dentist will need to build a new one. They can provide you with a temporary crown to protect the tooth while constructing a permanent crown in the lab.
Protect Your Crown from Further Damage
Once you have a dental crown secured over your tooth, you want to take precautionary measures to ensure this problem does not happen again. You should not bite down on unnecessarily hard items that can exert enough pressure to damage a crown. For instance, do not chew ice or bite your fingernails.
You should also practice proper oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental concerns that can impact the fit of a crown. Brush your teeth at least twice per day and floss every day. Find optimal preventative dental care and more when you visit your dentist on a regular basis.
Dental Crowns FAQs
How can I tell if my crown is cracked but not fully broken?
You may feel sharp pain or sensitivity when biting down or chewing. Some people also notice a rough edge on the crown or a visible hairline crack. Temperature sensitivity to hot or cold can also be a warning sign. If something feels off with your bite or the crown moves slightly, it’s best to have it checked.
Is it safe to brush and floss around a broken crown?
Yes, but do it gently. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and avoid pulling or tugging on the crown. When flossing, slide the floss out instead of pulling upward to avoid dislodging the crown further. Keeping the area clean helps prevent infection or further damage until you can see your dentist.
Can a broken crown damage the underlying tooth or gums?
Yes, if the crown is cracked or loose, bacteria can enter and infect the underlying tooth or irritate the gum tissue. This can lead to decay, gum inflammation, or even damage to the tooth structure. Prompt repair or replacement is important to protect your oral health.
Does dental insurance typically cover crown repairs?
Most dental insurance plans cover crown repairs or replacements if the damage is due to normal wear or a covered issue. However, coverage may vary depending on your plan, the age of the crown, and the reason it broke. It’s best to check with your insurance provider for exact details.
Will my new crown look different if the old one has to be replaced?
Not necessarily. Dr. Morris will match the new crown’s shape and color to blend with your surrounding teeth. In fact, newer materials or updated techniques may offer a better or more natural look than your previous crown. A replacement shouldn’t stand out if done correctly.
Can a dental crown break from normal chewing pressure?
It’s rare but possible, especially if the crown is old or made from weaker materials. Chewing hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy can increase the risk. Bruxism (teeth grinding) also puts extra pressure on crowns and may cause them to fracture over time.
Is swelling around the crown a sign that it’s damaged?
Yes, swelling or redness around the crown can indicate irritation, infection, or a poor fit. It could also mean the crown has loosened or that decay has developed underneath. If you notice swelling, it’s important to get evaluated promptly to avoid complications.