Step 1: Recover and Rinse the Crown

First things first; carefully retrieve the crown if you can. Once you have it, rinse it gently with lukewarm water. It’s crucial not to scrub it or use any chemicals on it, as you might damage it or alter its shape. Keep it in a safe place, as your dentist may be able to reattach it.

Step 2: Evaluate Your Tooth

Take a moment to assess how your tooth feels. If there’s any pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or sharp edges that could irritate your tongue or cheek, you’ll need to be extra cautious until you can see your dentist. Avoiding extreme temperatures and sticking to soft foods can help prevent discomfort.

Step 3: Contact Your Dentist ASAP

Getting in touch with your dentist should be your next move. Most dental offices will try to accommodate emergency situations like this, so explain what happened and get an appointment as soon as possible. The quicker you act, the better the chances of reattaching the crown successfully.

Step 4: Temporary Solutions

If you can’t see your dentist right away, you might consider using a temporary dental cement available at most pharmacies, or even a tiny piece of sugar-free chewed gum to place under the crown and onto the tooth until you see the dentist. These products can help hold your crown in place temporarily. However, remember this is just a temporary fix until your (hopefully) immediate dental appointment.

Step 5: Avoid Certain Foods and Habits

While you wait for your dental appointment, it’s wise to avoid chewing gum, eating sticky or hard foods, and using the side of your mouth where the crown fell out. This can help prevent further damage to your tooth or the crown.

What Your Dentist Will Do

When you see your dentist, they’ll assess both the crown and your tooth to determine the best course of action. If the crown and tooth are in good shape, your dentist might simply clean them and reattach the crown. If there’s underlying damage or decay, further treatment might be necessary.

Preventing Future Issues

To avoid future dental crown mishaps, follow your dentist’s care instructions, maintain good oral hygiene, and schedule regular dental check-ups. Sometimes, crowns fall out due to wear and tear or underlying issues, so staying on top of your dental health is key. Flossing is also key for a dental crown to have a long life.

Conclusion

A dental crown falling out can be alarming, but it’s a situation that can be managed with quick and appropriate actions. Remember to keep the crown safe, avoid causing more damage to your tooth, and get in touch with your dentist as soon as you can. With prompt attention, your smile will be back to normal in no time.

If you ever find yourself in this predicament, don’t panic. Follow these steps, and remember, your dentist is there to help get your dental health back on track. Call us at Fundamental Dental for your emergency appointment so that we can have you smiling confidently with your crown today! Just call (972) 360-0096 to schedule!

The post What to Do When Your Dental Crown Falls Out: A Simple Guide first appeared on Fundamental Dental.

Braces: Straightening Things Out

Braces are the go-to solution for crooked teeth or misalignment. They work by gradually moving your teeth into the right position over time. Yes, they’re a commitment, but the results? Totally worth it. And don’t worry about metallic smiles—modern braces come in clear and even invisible options!

Clear Aligners: The Invisible Aligner

Speaking of invisible, our clear aligners are all about subtlety. These clear plastic trays are custom-made for your teeth, slowly shifting them into place. They’re removable, so eating and brushing are no big deal. Perfect for adults and teens who want a less noticeable option.

Veneers: A Cover-Up for Flaws

Dental veneers, such as Lumineers®, are thin, tooth-colored shells attached to the front of your teeth. They’re great for hiding chips, cracks, or severe discoloration. Veneers can also help with gaps or slightly crooked teeth, giving you a uniform, bright smile in just a couple of visits to the dentist.

Dental Bonding: Quick Fixes

For small chips, gaps, or irregularities, dental bonding is a fast and effective fix. Your dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to your teeth, sculpting it into the perfect shape before hardening it with a special light. It’s quick, painless and can make a big difference in your smile.

Whitening: Brighten Up

Feeling self-conscious about tooth discoloration? Teeth whitening treatments can range from over-the-counter strips to professional services offered by our dentist. Depending on the cause of discoloration, you could see results that last for months or even years.

Crowns and Bridges: Restoring and Replacing

Severely damaged or missing teeth? Crowns and bridges are your friends. A crown is used to completely cover a damaged tooth, while bridges fill the space left by one or more missing teeth. Both options not only improve the look of your smile but also its function.

Implants: The Long-Term Solution

For a more permanent fix to missing teeth, consider dental implants. They replace your entire tooth, root and all, with a titanium core and a crown that looks just like your natural teeth. Implants require a surgical procedure and three to six months of healing time, but they’re as close as you can get to the real thing. Great solution for those that have unrestorable or missing teeth.

Conclusion: Your Smile, Your Choice

From braces to implants, there’s a solution out there for nearly every dental concern. The best first step? Talk to our dentist. We can recommend the most effective, budget-friendly, and suitable option for fixing your teeth based on your unique needs. Remember, the goal is to give you a smile that you’re proud to show off, so don’t hesitate to explore your options.

Have more questions about what dental treatment is right for you and about insurance coverage? Contact our office today to schedule a consultation at (972) 360-0096 or info@fundental.com. Let us help you navigate your insurance benefits and find the best path to a beautiful, healthy smile!

The post Finding the Right Fix for Your Teeth: A Simple Guide first appeared on Fundamental Dental.