Broken Dental Crown Emergency Treatment in Bethesda, MD

Did Your Dental Crown Break or Fall Out?

A dental crown is a prosthetic cap designed to cover a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Although dental crowns are known for their durability, they can occasionally sustain damage, necessitating prompt attention to avoid further complications.

If you find yourself with a broken crown on your tooth, you might be wondering what immediate steps to take. Contact First Class Smiles Bethesda right away for treatment. Our emergency dentist in Bethesda, MD, is ready to help restore your oral health—call (301) 760-4451.

Causes of Broken Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can become damaged or dislodged for several reasons:

• Dental Trauma: A direct impact to the mouth or face.
• Chewing Hard Foods: Biting into hard objects or foods.
• Tooth Decay: Decay beneath the crown weakens the tooth structure.
• Age: Wear and tear over time.
• Poor Crown Fit: An improperly placed or fitted crown.
• Grinding Teeth: Bruxism can put stress on the crown.
• Inadequate Oral Hygiene: Poor oral care can lead to decay around the crown.

Symptoms of a Broken Dental Crown

Identifying the symptoms of a broken dental crown is crucial for swift action:

• Visible Damage: Noticeable cracks, fractures, or missing pieces from the crown.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
• Pain or Discomfort: Particularly when chewing or biting down.
• Looseness: A sensation that the crown is loose or unstable.
• Gum Irritation: Inflammation or irritation around the tooth with the crown.

Immediate Actions to Take for a Broken Crown on Tooth

If you have a broken dental crown, follow these immediate steps:

1. Recover the Crown: Try to find and save any pieces of the broken crown.
2. Rinse Your Mouth: Use warm water to rinse your mouth and clean the affected area gently.
3. Manage Pain: Use over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate any discomfort.
4. Avoid Using the Affected Side: Do not chew on the side with the broken crown to prevent further damage.
5. Contact Our Dentist in Bethesda: Book an emergency appointment with our dentist as soon as possible.

Temporary Solutions for a Broken Dental Crown

Use Temporary Dental Cement

Temporary dental cement is a handy solution for dealing with a broken dental crown or a temporary crown. Easily found at most drugstores, it can be used to reattach a small broken fragment or to cover the exposed tooth, offering protection until you can visit your dentist. Designed for dental emergencies, it safeguards the underlying tooth from further harm.

Remember, it’s only temporary, and you should contact our dentist in Bethesda soon for a long-term solution.

Apply Dental Wax

Dental wax serves as another practical temporary solution for dealing with a broken crown. It can be used to cover the jagged edges of the broken crown, protecting your gums and mouth from irritation. This method provides comfort and helps prevent further injury while you wait for your dental appointment.

Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods

Avoiding certain foods is crucial to prevent further issues with a broken dental crown. Hard foods such as nuts and candies, as well as sticky foods like gum and caramel, can cause additional harm or further dislodge the crown. Opt for softer foods that require minimal chewing to protect the broken crown until you receive professional care.

How to Protect Your Tooth

Protecting the exposed tooth is vital to prevent infections and additional harm. You can use temporary dental cement or denture adhesive to shield the tooth temporarily. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses are effective for managing discomfort and reducing swelling.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is equally important. Here are some tips to help:

1. Gently rinse your mouth with warm water.
2. Avoid irritants to keep the area clean.
3. Steer clear of crunchy, chewy, or tough foods that might irritate the exposed tooth and hinder the healing process.

Repairing or Replacing a Broken Crown

Assessing the Damage

To evaluate the extent of the damage, our Bethesda dentist will typically remove the broken crown to inspect any underlying issues with the tooth structure. Bringing the broken crown to your appointment can help your dentist understand the damage and decide the most appropriate course of action.

Repairing the Existing Crown

If the crown is still whole but has become loose, it can often be reattached with ease. In many situations, a damaged dental crown can be repaired rather than completely replaced, saving time and money. Our Bethesda dentist will clean the underlying tooth and use dental cement to secure the crown in place.

The right treatment for a broken dental crown depends on the extent of the damage:

1. Crown Repair: If the damage is minor, your dentist might be able to fix the crown.
2. Crown Replacement: Severe damage may necessitate replacing the crown entirely.
3. Temporary Solutions: Our Bethesda dentist might apply a temporary crown or protective covering until a permanent solution is available.
4. Assessment: Dr. Asante will evaluate the underlying tooth to ensure there are no additional complications.

Getting a New Dental Crown

When a dental crown is extensively damaged, it can’t be repaired and must be replaced. Our dentist or a specialized laboratory can craft a new crown using impressions or digital scans to ensure a perfect fit. Dental crowns generally last between 10 and 15 years, but a new crown guarantees the ongoing protection and functionality of the tooth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a broken dental crown cause pain?

When a dental crown breaks, it might expose sensitive areas of the tooth, leading to discomfort or pain. It’s crucial to contact your dentist immediately for emergency dental crown treatment to alleviate the pain and prevent further damage to your natural teeth.

Can I reattach a broken dental crown myself?

You can use temporary dental cement from a drugstore to reattach a broken dental crown temporarily or cover the exposed tooth until you can see your dentist. However, seeking professional dental care is advisable for a permanent solution.

What foods should I avoid with a broken dental crown?

To protect your broken dental crown, avoid hard and sticky foods like nuts, candies, and chewing gum. Opt for softer foods that require less chewing to avoid further damage.

How can I protect my dental crowns from future breakages?

To prevent future breakages of your dental crowns, attend regular dental check-ups, maintain proper oral hygiene, and use mouthguards during sports or while sleeping. These practices will greatly enhance the longevity of your crowns.

Contact Our Bethesda Dentist When Your Dental Crowns Falls Out or Breaks

If you need personalized guidance or immediate help with a broken dental crown, feel free to reach out to our reliable dentist. A broken dental crown often qualifies as a dental emergency! 

To book your appointment, get in touch with our Bethesda dentist by calling (301) 760-4451. Dr. Asante and her dental team offer tailored care and a wide range of dental services to patients in Bethesda, Rockville, Chevy Chase, and the surrounding areas.