What is what to do when your crown falls out?

Okay, here's information on what to do when your crown falls out, formatted in markdown with the requested links:

My Crown Fell Out! What Now?

It can be alarming when a dental crown comes loose or falls out entirely. Here's a breakdown of what to do:

  1. Stay Calm: It's a common issue, and your dentist can help. Panic won't solve anything.

  2. Retrieve the Crown (If Possible): Carefully rinse the crown with water. Avoid using soap or toothpaste, as these can leave a residue. Examine the crown. If it appears undamaged, you might be able to temporarily re-cement it. If the crown is damaged, or you are unsure, store it safely in a clean container to take to your dentist.

  3. Inspect Your Mouth: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Look for any sharp edges or discomfort on the tooth where the crown was.

  4. Temporary Protection: Your exposed tooth may be sensitive to temperature and pressure. Consider these options for temporary protection:

    • Over-the-Counter Dental Cement: Pharmacies sell temporary dental cement. Follow the instructions carefully to re-cement the crown. This is a temporary fix until you can see your dentist. <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Temporary%20Dental%20Cement">Temporary Dental Cement</a>
    • Dental Wax/Softened Chewing Gum: If you can't re-cement the crown, you can use dental wax (available at pharmacies) or even a small piece of softened, sugar-free chewing gum to cover the exposed tooth and protect it. This is a short-term solution. <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Dental%20Wax">Dental Wax</a>
  5. Call Your Dentist Immediately: This is the most important step. Explain what happened and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more vulnerable your tooth becomes to damage, decay, and shifting. <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Call%20Your%20Dentist">Call Your Dentist</a>

  6. Pain Management: If you experience pain, take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the recommended dosage.

  7. Be Mindful of What You Eat: Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the crown is missing. Stick to soft foods and avoid sticky, hard, or chewy items that could further damage the exposed tooth or dislodge any temporary covering.

Why It's Important to See Your Dentist Quickly:

  • Tooth Sensitivity: Without the crown, your tooth is more susceptible to temperature changes and pressure, leading to sensitivity and pain.
  • Tooth Decay: The exposed tooth is vulnerable to decay.
  • Tooth Shifting: Adjacent teeth can shift into the space left by the missing crown, affecting your bite and potentially requiring more extensive treatment later.
  • Gum Irritation: The exposed margins of the prepared tooth can irritate the gums.