A temporary crown, also known as a provisional crown, serves as a placeholder while your permanent crown is being fabricated. While designed to be durable, they can sometimes come loose or fall out completely. This can be concerning, but don't panic! This guide will walk you through what to do if your temporary crown falls out and how to prevent it from happening again.
What Causes a Temporary Crown to Fall Out?
Several factors can contribute to a temporary crown becoming dislodged. Understanding these causes can help you prevent future incidents.
- Excessive biting force: Chewing on hard foods like nuts, ice, or hard candies can exert significant pressure on the temporary crown, leading to its detachment.
- Poor cementation: If the temporary cement wasn't properly applied or has degraded over time, the crown may become loose and fall out.
- Trauma: Accidental impacts to your mouth, such as a fall or blow to the face, can dislodge the crown.
- Decay under the crown: If there was pre-existing decay under the crown, it could worsen and cause the crown to loosen.
- Natural wear and tear: Over time, the cement holding the crown in place can weaken, eventually leading to its detachment.
What to Do If Your Temporary Crown Falls Out?
The first thing to do is remain calm. While losing your temporary crown can be inconvenient, it's not a medical emergency in most cases. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Locate the crown: If possible, carefully retrieve the crown and store it in a safe place. This might be useful for your dentist.
- Rinse your mouth: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area.
- Inspect the tooth: Examine the tooth carefully for any damage or sensitivity.
- Contact your dentist immediately: Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Don't delay – the longer you wait, the greater the risk of complications, such as tooth sensitivity or further damage.
Can I Re-cement My Temporary Crown Myself?
While tempting, it's strongly advised against attempting to re-cement your temporary crown at home. Improper reattachment could lead to further damage to your tooth or gum tissue. Use of incorrect materials could also cause irritation or infection. It's best to leave this task to your dentist.
How Long Can I Go Without a Temporary Crown?
Ideally, you should see your dentist as soon as possible after your temporary crown falls out. The exposed tooth is more vulnerable to damage, decay, and sensitivity. While a short delay might be acceptable, prolonging the time without a crown increases these risks significantly.
How Can I Prevent My Temporary Crown From Falling Out Again?
Preventing future incidents requires careful attention to oral hygiene and dietary habits:
- Avoid hard foods: Refrain from chewing on excessively hard foods that could put stress on your teeth.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to keep your mouth clean and prevent any infection or irritation.
- Avoid biting hard objects: Be mindful of what you bite on, particularly hard candies or ice.
- Follow your dentist's instructions: Adhere to all post-procedure instructions provided by your dentist.
What Happens if I Don't Replace My Temporary Crown?
Leaving the area without a crown leaves your tooth exposed and vulnerable to:
- Increased sensitivity: The exposed dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) is significantly more sensitive than the protected tooth under a crown.
- Tooth fracture: The vulnerable tooth structure is more likely to chip or fracture.
- Decay: The tooth becomes more susceptible to bacterial attack and decay.
- Shifting of adjacent teeth: The space left by the missing crown might cause nearby teeth to shift their position.
By following these guidelines and contacting your dentist promptly, you can minimize the risks and discomfort associated with a fallen temporary crown and ensure a smoother path to your permanent restoration. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and careful attention to oral hygiene and dietary choices can go a long way in protecting your dental health.
