How to Handle a Broken or Damaged Dental Crown

Having a dental crown can make you feel like royalty, but what happens when that crown becomes cracked, broken, or loose? As with any dental work, there is always a risk of damage or wear over time. This can be a stressful situation, but don't panic – our team at Super Smiles Family Dentistry is here to help! In this blog post, we'll discuss the steps you can take to handle a broken or damaged dental crown and how our professional dental services can restore your smile to its former glory.

Understanding Dental Crowns

Before we dive into how to handle a damaged dental crown, it's essential to understand what a dental crown is and why it's necessary. Simply put, a dental crown is a custom-made "cap" that is placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. It is often used to protect a weak tooth, cover a dental implant, or improve the appearance of a tooth.

With proper care, a dental crown can last for many years. However, accidents can happen, and sometimes a crown may become cracked, broken, or loose. In such cases, it's crucial to take prompt action to avoid further damage and discomfort.

Assessing the Damage

The first step in handling a damaged dental crown is to assess the extent of the damage. If you can, gently remove the crown and examine it. Is the crown completely broken off, or is it just a small crack or chip? Is the inner surface of the crown damaged, or is the damage limited to the outer surface? Answering these questions will give you a better understanding of the situation and help you communicate effectively with your dentist.

If you are not able to remove the crown or are unsure of the severity of the damage, it's best to schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. They will be able to properly assess the situation and provide you with the best course of action.

Temporary Solutions

While waiting for your dental appointment, there are a few temporary solutions you can try to alleviate any discomfort or prevent further damage to your tooth.

If the crown is loose but still attached, you can use temporary dental cement or denture adhesive to hold it in place until you see your dentist.
If the crown is completely off and you're not able to visit your dentist immediately, you can try to reattach it with temporary dental cement or toothpaste. However, it's important to note that this is only a temporary solution, and you should still see your dentist as soon as possible.
If you're experiencing pain or discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or apply a numbing gel to the affected area.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

Sometimes, a damaged dental crown may require immediate attention. If you experience any of the following situations, it's crucial to seek emergency dental care:

Severe pain or discomfort
Bleeding from the affected tooth or gum area
The crown has completely fallen off, and you're unable to reattach it
The damage is extensive, and you can see the inner surface of the crown or the underlying tooth
You have difficulty eating or speaking due to the damaged crown
You're experiencing a foul taste or odor from the damaged crown

In such cases, it's best to visit your dentist or seek emergency dental care as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the situation and provide appropriate treatment to address the issue.

Restoring Your Dental Crown

If you have successfully saved your damaged crown and have visited your dentist, they will most likely recommend a few solutions to restore it. These may include:

Repairing the existing crown: If the damage is minor, your dentist may be able to repair the existing crown and reattach it to your tooth.
Creating a new crown: If the damage is extensive, the existing crown cannot be repaired, or it no longer fits correctly, your dentist will suggest creating a new crown.
Replacing the existing crown with a different material: In some cases, your dentist may suggest replacing the damaged crown with a different material if they believe it will provide better long-term results.

Contact Our Team at Super Smiles Family Dentistry for Professional Dental Crown Services in Plainview, TX

Don't let a damaged dental crown ruin your smile. At Super Smiles Family Dentistry, our experienced team is dedicated to providing high-quality dental services to restore and maintain your oral health. We offer a wide range of services, including pediatric and adult dental care, dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, and more.

If you're in Plainview, TX, or the surrounding areas and are in need of dental crown services, don't hesitate to contact us at 806-296-6057. Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you and schedule an appointment with our skilled dentists. Remember, a beautiful smile is just a phone call away!

FAQs

Can a chipped dental crown be repaired?

Yes, depending on the severity of the damage, your dentist may be able to repair a chipped dental crown with composite resin or bonding material.
How much does it cost to fix a damaged dental crown?

The cost of fixing a damaged dental crown varies depending on the extent of the damage and the type of material used for the crown. It's best to consult with your dentist for an accurate estimate.
How long does a dental crown last?

With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can last for 10-15 years.
Can I eat after getting a dental crown?

It's best to wait until the anesthesia has worn off completely before eating to avoid injury. Additionally, avoid hard or sticky foods that can potentially damage the crown.
How often should I visit the dentist after getting a dental crown?

It's crucial to maintain regular dental check-ups and cleanings every 6 months to ensure the health and longevity of your dental crown.

At Super Smiles Family Dentistry, your oral health is our top priority. Call us at (806) 296-6057 to schedule your follow-up appointment and ensure your smile stays bright and healthy!

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