If you’re reading this, chances are you're facing the unfortunate situation of a broken dental crown. Don’t worry; this happens to the best of us! The good news is that there are steps you can take to restore your pearly whites and regain that sparkling smile. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about a broken dental crown and the options available for repair. So, sit tight, and let’s dive into the world of dental crowns together!
What are Dental Crowns
Before we delve into what to do when a dental crown is broken, let's first understand what a dental crown is. A dental crown is a dental restoration that completely caps or encircles a tooth or dental implant. There are several reasons why a dental crown may be necessary. It is commonly used when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth. Additionally, dental crowns are used to restore broken or severely worn-down teeth. They can also be placed on top of dental implants to provide a natural-looking replacement for a missing tooth.
Dental crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, gold, metal, or resin. The most popular choices are porcelain and ceramic crowns, as they closely resemble the color and translucency of natural teeth. Gold and metal crowns are typically used on back teeth due to their durability for chewing. Resin crowns, on the other hand, are less expensive but have a shorter lifespan.
Crowns are usually cemented onto existing teeth or implants with special dental adhesives. Sometimes, they may be held in place by being clipped onto adjacent teeth. Proper care of crowned teeth, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, is essential to ensure longevity. Dentakay blog post gives a comprehensive guide on the repair procedure and cost of dental crowns, click to learn more Dentakay.
5 Steps to Take if Your Dental Crown is Broken
A broken dental crown can be alarming, but there's no need to panic. Following these five steps, you can promptly address the issue and restore your smile.
Step 1: Contact Your Dentist Immediately
The first and most crucial step when a dental crown is broken is to contact your dentist immediately. There are several reasons why immediate action is necessary. Firstly, a broken dental crown can cause pain and discomfort. Secondly, it can lead to damage to the underlying tooth structure. Lastly, a broken crown allows bacteria to enter, potentially leading to an infection.
Upon contacting your dentist, they will likely schedule an appointment to assess the damage and determine the best action. Depending on the situation, the dentist may be able to reattach the crown, or a replacement may be necessary. It is essential to seek professional guidance to protect your tooth and prevent further damage.
Step 2: Avoid Using the Tooth with the Broken Crown
Once your dental crown breaks, taking immediate action is crucial to prevent further complications. The first step is to avoid using the tooth with the broken crown. Refrain from putting any pressure on it and avoid chewing hard or sticky foods. If the tooth is painful, over-the-counter pain medication can help alleviate discomfort. In case of bleeding, rinse your mouth with warm water or apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
After taking these initial steps, seeing your dentist as soon as possible is crucial to thoroughly assess the damage. Depending on the severity of the break, the crown may be repairable or require more extensive treatment.
Step 3: Reduce Swelling and Discomfort
When a dental crown breaks, it's common to experience swelling and discomfort. Here are a few suggestions to alleviate these symptoms:
- Apply a cold compress to the affected area for 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate discomfort.
- Stick to softer foods like mashed potatoes or soup to avoid further irritation.
- Gently floss around the broken tooth to remove any food particles that may be trapped, being careful not to damage the gum tissue.
- These steps can minimize swelling and discomfort while waiting for your dental appointment.
Step 4: Protect the Tooth from Further Damage
Protecting the tooth from the broken dental crown is crucial to prevent further damage. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- If the crown is still in place, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth to prevent additional strain on the tooth.
- If the crown is loose, carefully remove and clean it with warm water. Rinse your mouth with warm water as well.
- You can use dental wax or temporary adhesive to prevent the crown from falling out completely. Your dentist may also provide a temporary replacement crown.
- Until the crown is repaired or replaced, avoid eating hard or sticky foods that can further damage the tooth.
- These precautions will help protect your tooth until you seek professional dental care.
Step 5: Consider Replacing the Broken Crown
If the broken dental crown is still in place, seeing your dentist is essential. Depending on the severity of the break, the dentist may be able to reattach the crown or recommend a replacement. If the crown is no longer in place, try to find the broken piece and bring it to your dental appointment. This will assist the dentist in determining the most appropriate course of action.
If you're unable to locate the broken piece, don't worry! Your dentist can take an impression of your tooth and create a new crown that matches your natural tooth color. After the examination, the dentist will inform you whether the tooth can be saved or if extraction is necessary. In either case, a new dental crown will be required.
Conclusion
Experiencing a broken dental crown may be distressing, but you can address the issue effectively with the proper steps. By following the five steps outlined in this guide, you can take immediate action, protect your tooth, and restore your smile in no time.
Remember, seeking professional dental care is essential to ensure the best outcome. So, even if it feels like an emergency when your dental crown breaks, stay calm, and remember that with proper care and prompt attention, it doesn't have to be a disaster.
