Teeth that are severely decayed or fractured may benefit from dental crowns, which cover the damaged portions of the teeth, protecting them and restoring their functionality. A dental crown is crafted to fit the remaining portion of the tooth exactly and permanently bond to it. However, crowns are not perfect, and while they are usually very durable, they can come loose for a number of reasons. If the loose crown causes extreme pain or sensitivity, or the tooth is in danger of falling out, it could be considered a dental emergency.
Even if it is not an emergency, you should see a dentist for a loose crown at the earliest appointment available. It may be possible to recement the existing crown. If not, the dentist will have to order a new one for you and make a temporary replacement to protect the tooth until the new one is ready. While you are waiting for your appointment, take the following steps.
As long as the abutments under dental crowns remain intact, it should be possible to replace them. However, wiggling the crown may cause damage to the underlying tooth. It could also cause the crown to fall out completely, which you should avoid if possible.
You can temporarily stabilize the crown so it does not wiggle around and cause further damage by using dental cement. This is available for purchase over the counter, and you can apply it yourself. Before placing the temporary dental cement, use gauze to dry the tooth and the crown. Place it carefully and then allow the adhesive to set by biting down gently but firmly on a piece of gauze for five minutes. This can only stabilize your tooth for a few hours, so ideally, you should see the dentist before then.
A loose crown may cause pain or sensitivity. You can keep this under control by applying a topical numbing agent to the affected area or taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package.
If you have to eat anything prior to your dental appointment to fix your loose crown, be careful to chew on the opposite side from the affected area. Do not eat anything too sticky or crunchy.
Be careful to avoid swallowing the crown. If it is not broken, save it and bring it with you to your appointment. The dentist can evaluate the crown and determine whether it can be put back in place.
There are many reasons a crown can become loose. Familiarizing yourself with these common causes can help you adjust your daily habits so you can improve the overall lifespan of a dental crown.
Chronic teeth-grinding or clenching is a condition known as bruxism. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, one in three people have this dental condition and many may not even know it. While a person can clench or grind their teeth at any time, many people only do it at night in their sleep. They may experience the side effects, such as a headache or jaw pain, without realizing the true underlying cause.
Habitually grinding your teeth can damage a crown over time, causing it to become loose. Fortunately, there are many treatment options for bruxism, including stress management, therapy, and the use of mouth guards.
Eating hard, tough, or crunchy foods can put a lot of strain on a crown, especially if these foods are consumed on a regular basis. Candies, chips, seeds, nuts, and whole crunchy fruits or vegetables are some of the worst offenders. Cut your food into manageable pieces and avoid these foods to prevent a crown from loosening over time.
Even with a healthy diet, good lifestyle choices, and proper dental hygiene, most dental crowns do not last forever. With excellent care and the advantage of good overall oral health, crowns can last for decades. However, it is normal for crowns to wear out and become loose after 10 to 15 years.
Dental crowns are built to last for years, but a number of factors can cause them to come loose. It is important to prevent your loose crown from falling out if possible and to see your dentist promptly for repair.
Request an appointment here: https://dentistryonpark.com or call Dentistry on Park, LLC at (781) 443-8131 for an appointment in our Stoughton office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges in Stoughton, MA.
When a dental practitioner recommends a dental crown, it may not be up to the patient. These dental devices are used to treat various conditions that cause a tooth to need serious work. When a crown is required, it usually means that the tooth it covers is too far gone to be useful, but it…
If you have ever had a dental crown, you may have had traditional impressions taken. This usually involves a gooey material that the dentist places in your mouth. It will mold to the shape of your teeth. However, many people do not like this type of impression. The good news is that you have alternatives…
A dental crown is one of the most popular cosmetic or dental restorations. They strengthen broken, cracked, or decayed teeth. Dentists recommend dental crowns for different reasons, but you will be surprised to discover that crowns differ in many ways, including cost and appearance.This article focuses on the different materials used in making dental crowns,…
When you first notice a chipped tooth, it can be easy to dismiss it as not serious or something that won't happen again. However, many things can happen if this chip is left untreated and goes unnoticed. If left untreated, it may cause additional damage. What started out as a potentially minor issue can develop…
Any dental restoration can be challenging to budget for. Discussing the particulars with your dentist can help you get a clear idea of the final amount. Understanding the specific elements of your dental procedure is important in setting your budget. Here is a comprehensive guide for determining the cost of your dental restoration.This dental restoration…
Preventative dental care is important for optimal oral health. It prevents bad breath, oral disease, tooth loss, among others.The enamel is the outermost part of the tooth. It is a white visible part above the gum. It is the part seen when you smile. The enamel is also the strongest layer of the tooth. It…