Losing a filling or crown can be alarming. It leaves your tooth exposed and vulnerable to damage or infection. Acting quickly can help prevent pain and further complications. Here’s what you need to do to protect your tooth until you see a dentist.
What to Do If You Lose a Filling or Crown: Emergency Steps to Protect Your Tooth
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First, check your mouth. If you feel a gap where the filling or crown was, try to find the missing piece. Rinse it with warm water and store it safely. Avoid chewing on that side to prevent more damage.
2. Clean Your Mouth Gently
Use warm salt water to rinse your mouth. This helps remove bacteria and prevents infection. Brush carefully around the affected area without applying too much pressure.
3. Manage Any Pain or Sensitivity
A lost filling or crown can expose sensitive nerves, causing discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help. Clove oil, applied with a cotton swab, can also soothe pain. Avoid very hot, cold, or sweet foods, as they can trigger sensitivity.
4. Protect the Exposed Tooth
If you lost a crown, try placing it back over the tooth using temporary dental cement from a pharmacy. Do not use glue or any non-dental adhesive. If the crown is broken or lost, apply the dental cement directly to the tooth to cover it until you see an emergency dentist.
For a lost filling, you can also use dental cement or sugar-free gum to seal the hole temporarily. This prevents food and bacteria from entering the cavity.
5. Avoid Certain Foods
Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the affected side. Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can worsen the damage and cause pain.
6. Schedule an Appointment Immediately
A lost filling or crown is not just a minor inconvenience—it’s a dental emergency. Waiting too long can lead to decay, infection, or even tooth loss. Contact an emergency dentist as soon as possible. A dental clinic specializing in restorative dentistry can provide the right treatment to save your tooth.
7. What to Expect at the Dentist
Your dentist will examine your tooth and determine the best solution. They may replace the filling, reattach the crown, or create a new one if needed. If decay has developed, they will clean the area before restoring the tooth.
Get Emergency Dental Care at NY Dental Boutique
If you’ve lost a filling or crown, don’t wait. At NY Dental Boutique, we provide fast and expert care to restore your smile. Our team specializes in emergency and restorative dentistry in Brooklyn, ensuring your teeth stay strong and healthy. Call us today to schedule your emergency visit!
