Dental crowns are a useful tool in restorative dental procedures. They are ceramic caps that fit over your tooth and are secured permanently into place with dental bonding.
Dental crowns are meant to be a permanent treatment, but accidents can happen where a crown can fall out or break. The dentists at Payette Dental in Payette, ID describe what you should do if you suffer damage to your dental crowns.
Schedule Emergency Dentist Appointment
The first thing you should do if your dental crown is damaged is to call your dentist. A dental crown that has fallen out can be a dental emergency. You should schedule an appointment to get the crown fixed as soon as you can.
Exposed dentin as a result of a damaged dental crown can leave you with painful symptoms like tooth sensitivity. Your dentist may have recommendations regarding temporary pain relief. However, you should consult with your dental professional before taking action regarding your crown.
In-Office Dental Crown Repair
When you visit your dentist for an emergency appointment, the dentist will examine your mouth and your crown for signs of additional damage. Once your mouth is otherwise healthy, they will bond the crown back into place if the crown itself is not damaged.
If a new crown needs to be made, your dentist can provide you with a temporary crown while a permanent dental crown is constructed. The temporary crown can relieve any painful symptoms and protect your tooth until the permanent one is ready. You will have to return to the office for another appointment to have the new dental crown bonded into place.
Prevent Future Crown Damage
To avoid this dental emergency in the future, you should take care of your dental crown. Crowns are durable and built to withstand the everyday wear and tear of your teeth. However, they are susceptible to damage if exposed to abnormal amounts of pressure.
For this reason, you should avoid biting down on hard items, such as ice, fingernails, or the end of a pen. If you grind your teeth, you should mention this to your dentist because this behavior can potentially harm a dental crown. Staying aware of your oral habits can prevent future emergencies.
Dental Crowns and More in Payette, ID
Payette Dental provides dental crowns and other restorative dentistry treatments to patients in Payette, ID. Our practice also specializes in cosmetic and general dentistry, including dental emergencies, for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 208.243.9807.