How to Handle a Broken or Damaged Dental Crown

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.

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.
  

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.

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.
  

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!

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!