A dental crown is a common solution for various dental issues, providing protection and restoration to damaged teeth. However, dental crowns are not invulnerable, and there may come a time when you face the unexpected situation of a broken dental crown. It can be a disturbing experience, but knowing how to handle it is crucial to ensure your oral health remains intact. In this guide, we will walk you through the five essential steps to take immediately when your dental crown breaks. From assessing the damage to seeking professional help, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
The first step when your dental crown breaks is to assess the damage. Take a close look at the affected area in your mouth and try to determine the extent of the break. Does it only involve the crown, or has it affected the underlying tooth structure? Understanding the nature of the damage will help you make informed decisions moving forward.
If the crown is partially or completely dislodged, carefully remove it from your mouth. Be gentle to avoid any further damage or discomfort. Inspect the crown for any fractures or pieces that may have broken off. Keep these pieces, as they might be useful in the repair process.
Step 2: Clean and Protect
Once you’ve removed the broken dental crown, it’s essential to clean both the crown and the affected tooth. Rinse your mouth with warm water to ensure there are no food particles or debris trapped between the crown and your tooth. Next, gently clean the crown, careful not to damage it further. You can use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste for this purpose.
After cleaning, if you have access to a dental adhesive or temporary dental cement, you can use it to reattach the crown temporarily. This can help protect the exposed tooth and prevent any sensitivity. However, remember this is a temporary solution, and you should still seek professional help.
Step 3: Pain Management
A broken dental crown can often lead to dental sensitivity or discomfort. To manage pain, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed on the packaging. It’s crucial to follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or allergies.
Sometimes, you can also use dental wax to cover any sharp edges of the broken crown. This will prevent it from irritating your cheeks, tongue, or gums. Dental wax is readily available at most drugstores and can be an effective short-term solution to reduce discomfort.
Step 4: Contact Your Dentist
After assessing the damage, cleaning, and temporarily managing any pain, the next step is to contact your dentist as soon as possible. Dental crowns are not meant to last forever, and they can deteriorate over time. When a crown breaks, it may indicate that the underlying tooth structure is compromised or the adhesive holding the crown has weakened.
When you call your dentist, explain the situation and schedule an appointment for crown repair or replacement. It’s important not to delay this step, as a damaged crown can expose your tooth to further decay or infection. Your dentist will assess the situation, provide the necessary treatment, and ensure the crown is securely reattached or replaced.
Step 5: Keep the Crown Safe
While you wait for your dental appointment, it’s crucial to keep the broken crown safe. Place it in a secure container or a small plastic bag to prevent further damage or loss. If the crown has multiple pieces, keep them all together. Your dentist may be able to repair the crown if the damage is minor or replace it if it’s beyond repair.
Experiencing a broken dental crown can be stressful and unexpected. Still, by following these five essential steps, you can ensure that you handle the situation effectively and protect your oral health. Assessing the damage, cleaning and protecting the affected area, managing pain, contacting your dentist promptly, and keeping the crown safe are all crucial in this process. Remember that a broken dental crown is a dental emergency, and seeking professional help is paramount. Your dentist will evaluate the extent of the damage and provide the necessary treatment to restore your dental crown and protect your oral health. By acting swiftly and knowledgeably, you can navigate this dental issue with confidence, ensuring a healthy and happy smile.
