A temporary crown, also known as a provisional crown, serves as a placeholder while your permanent crown is being fabricated. It's designed to protect the prepared tooth and maintain its shape and function. However, sometimes these temporary crowns can come loose or fall out completely. This can be unsettling, but it's important to stay calm and take the right steps. This guide will cover everything you need to know about what to do if your temporary crown falls out, including how to handle the situation immediately and what to expect during your visit to the dentist.
What Should I Do if My Temporary Crown Falls Out?
The first thing to do if your temporary crown falls out is remain calm. Panic won't help the situation. Your next steps should be:
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Locate the crown: If possible, carefully find the crown and rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Store it in a safe place, such as a small container or a zip-top bag, until your dentist appointment. This increases the chances your dentist can re-cement it.
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Inspect your tooth: Gently examine the tooth where the crown was placed. Check for any noticeable damage or sensitivity. Avoid touching the exposed tooth surface with your tongue or fingers as much as possible.
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Contact your dentist: Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Explain that your temporary crown has fallen out. They may be able to fit you in for an emergency appointment.
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Manage discomfort: If you experience any significant pain or sensitivity, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
How Can I Prevent My Temporary Crown From Falling Out?
While no method guarantees a temporary crown will stay in place perfectly, you can take certain measures to minimize the risk of it falling out. These include:
- Avoid sticky or hard foods: This is crucial for the longevity of your temporary crown. Stay away from chewing gum, caramels, hard candies, and other foods that could put stress on the crown.
- Gentle brushing and flossing: Brush and floss gently around the temporary crown to avoid dislodging it.
- Avoid biting down hard: Be mindful of how you chew your food, and avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite into hard objects.
How Long Can I Go Without a Temporary Crown?
You shouldn't go without your temporary crown for an extended period. The exposed tooth is vulnerable to damage, decay, temperature sensitivity, and further fracture. Contact your dentist immediately if your temporary crown falls out to schedule a repair or replacement.
What Happens When I See the Dentist?
When you see your dentist, they will assess your tooth and the condition of the temporary crown (if you have it). They will likely:
- Clean the tooth: Thoroughly clean the exposed tooth surface to remove any debris or plaque.
- Evaluate for damage: Examine the tooth for any fractures, decay, or other damage that may have occurred while the crown was off.
- Re-cement the crown (if possible): If the crown is intact and the tooth is undamaged, the dentist will attempt to re-cement it.
- Create a new temporary crown: If the original crown is damaged or cannot be re-cemented, a new temporary crown will be made.
- Schedule for your permanent crown: They’ll confirm the timeline for your permanent crown placement.
Will My Insurance Cover a Temporary Crown Repair?
Most dental insurance plans cover temporary crowns as part of the overall crown procedure. However, it's always best to contact your insurance provider directly to verify coverage specifics for repairs or replacements of temporary crowns.
Why Did My Temporary Crown Fall Out?
Several reasons can lead to a temporary crown falling out:
- Poor cementation: The initial cementing process might not have been optimal.
- Trauma or impact: An accidental blow or impact to the tooth could dislodge the crown.
- Dietary habits: Chewing on hard or sticky foods can put too much pressure on the temporary crown.
- Tooth decay: Underlying tooth decay can weaken the tooth structure, making it difficult for the crown to stay in place.
Remember, prompt action is crucial if your temporary crown falls out. Contact your dentist immediately to prevent further complications. By following these steps, you can minimize the discomfort and ensure the successful completion of your crown procedure.
