A broken dental crown can be a scary and painful experience. Dental crowns are designed to protect a damaged or weakened tooth, so when it breaks, it can cause a lot of discomfort. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to make the situation more bearable and get the crown fixed. This article will provide a guide on how to handle a broken dental crown and what to do next.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. It is typically made of porcelain or ceramic, although metal is also sometimes used. The crown is designed to protect the tooth and prevent further damage.
What to Do When a Dental Crown Breaks
When a dental crown breaks, it can cause pain and discomfort. It can also lead to further damage to the underlying tooth. It is important to take action as soon as possible to avoid more serious problems.
1 – Call Your Dentist
The first step is to call your dentist and make an appointment as soon as possible. The sooner you can get in to see your dentist, the better. At the appointment, your dentist will assess the damage and determine the best course of action. Depending on the severity of the damage, the dentist may be able to repair the crown, or they may need to replace it.
2 – Seek Pain Relief
In the meantime, it is important to take steps to relieve the pain and prevent further damage. You can take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help manage the pain. You should also avoid eating on the side of the mouth with the broken crown and avoid hard or chewy foods.
3 – Keep It in Place
If the crown is still in one piece, try to keep it in place. You can use dental cement or denture adhesive to temporarily keep it in place. This will help protect the tooth and reduce the risk of further damage.
4 – Visit the Dentist
After managing the pain, you should make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can examine the tooth and determine the best course of action. In some cases, the crown can be re-cemented, while in other cases, a new crown may be needed.
Why Seeking Dental Intervention Is Crucial
Although it’s possible to temporarily fix a dislodged crown, it’s important to seek professional dental care as soon as possible. A dislodged crown can cause serious damage to the underlying tooth, which can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Your dentist can diagnose any underlying issues and provide the most effective treatment to restore your smile. If your crown has come loose, don’t wait to seek help.
Conclusion
It is important to take swift action if one experiences a broken dental crown. The most important step to take is to contact a dentist as soon as possible and make an appointment to have it repaired or replaced. In the interim, it is important to take care of the broken crown, since it is still technically part of the dental structure. This can be done by cleaning it gently, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and avoiding hard and crunchy foods. In the end, proper care of a broken dental crown can help to ensure the longevity of your dental health and prevent any further damage to the tooth or the crown itself.
If your dental crowns need repair, come to Oro Valley Dental Arts. Let us take care of all your dental needs today!
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