Do Dental Crowns fall off?

When it comes to dental restorations like crowns, patients often wonder about their durability and potential issues such as crowns falling off. This blog delves into the common question: Do dental crowns fall off?

Dental crowns may come loose or fall out for various reasons, causing discomfort and inconvenience. But how often does this happen, and what can you do about it?

Keep on reading to find out, “Do Dental Crowns fall off? Explore the factors contributing to crown dislodgement, preventive measures, and what to do if a crown falls off.

What are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are an important part of many people’s dental care routines. They’re mainly used to protect teeth that are damaged or weakened, but they are also helpful for cosmetic procedures to improve the overall appearance of teeth. Consider a dental crown as a protective cap put over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. These caps can be made from different materials like porcelain, ceramic, and even metals such as gold or stainless steel.

Now, let us find out Why do dental crowns fall off and what steps to take afterward.

Why do Dental Crowns fall off?

While dental crowns are safe and effective, there are times when they might come off.

Poor Crown Fit:

Crowns must fit snugly over teeth. Improper fit due to inaccurate impressions or manufacturing errors can lead to premature dislodgement.

Decay or Tooth Damage:

Underlying tooth decay or damage can weaken the tooth structure, affecting the crown’s stability.

Dental Trauma:

Accidents, such as falls or blows to the face, can dislodge crowns, especially if the impact affects the crowned tooth.

Chewing Habits:

Habitual biting on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails can exert excessive force on crowns, causing them to loosen over time.

Gum Disease:

Periodontal issues such as gum recession or gum inflammation can compromise the stability of crowns.

What are the Signs of a Loose Crown?

Recognizing early signs of a loose crown can prevent complete dislodgement. Watch out for:

Mild discomfort or sensitivity around the crowned tooth.
A visible gap between the crown and the tooth.
Difficulty in biting or chewing, especially on the crowned tooth.

How to Prevent Crown Dislodgement?

You can avoid falling off of your crown with the help of the following:

Regular Dental Check-ups:

Routine dental visits allow dentists to assess crown integrity and address any issues promptly.

Good Oral Hygiene:

Brushing your teeth twice, flossing, and using antiseptic mouthwash can lower the chances of decay and gum disease, which may affect the stability of your crown.

Avoiding Damaging Habits:

Don’t bite down on hard objects or use your teeth as tools to prevent putting unnecessary stress on your crowns.

Protective Mouthguards:

For individuals prone to teeth grinding (bruxism) or engaging in contact sports, custom mouthguards can safeguard crowns from damage.

What Do I Do If My Crown Falls Out?

When you realize that your dental crown has fallen out, it can be a bit alarming. However, it’s important to stay calm and know what steps to take to handle the situation properly. Here are the steps you should follow if your crown falls out:

Retrieve the Crown:

If your crown falls out, try to find it immediately. Handle it with care and don’t touch the inner surface (the side that fits over your tooth).

Inspect the Crown:

Examine the inside of the crown and your tooth. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks or debris. Rinse both the crown and your mouth with lukewarm water to remove dirt or debris.

Assess Your Tooth:

Check your natural tooth from which the crown dislodged. If the tooth appears intact and free of damage, you can proceed with attempting to temporarily reattach the crown. However, if the tooth shows signs of decay or damage, do not attempt to reattach the crown yourself.

Temporary Reattachment:

You can try to temporarily reattach the crown using dental adhesive or temporary cement available at pharmacies. Follow the package instructions carefully. Only use temporary measures as a short-term solution until you can see your dentist.

Schedule an Emergency Dental Visit:

Contact your dentist immediately, preferably the same day, to schedule an emergency appointment. Inform the dental office that your crown has fallen out so they can prioritize your visit.

Protect the Tooth:

While waiting to see your dentist, be cautious with the affected tooth. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth to prevent further damage or dislodgement of the crown.

Bring the Crown:

When you visit your dentist, take the dislodged crown with you. Your dentist will assess the crown and your tooth to determine the appropriate course of action, which may include re-cementing the crown or fabricating a new crown if necessary.

Follow Dental Recommendations:

Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully regarding oral care, temporary measures, and any further treatment needed to ensure the long-term stability of your dental crown.

Conclusion

Do Dental Crowns fall? While crowns are durable dental restorations, they can fall off due to various reasons. Understanding the causes, recognizing signs of a loose crown, practicing preventive measures, and knowing what to do if a crown falls off are essential for maintaining optimal oral health and crown longevity. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene remain key factors in preventing crown dislodgement and ensuring lasting dental restorations.

Concerned About Crown Stability?

Wondering, “Do dental crowns fall off?” Schedule a consultation at Glow Up Dentistry in Richmond, TX, to discuss crown stability and maintenance. New patients can book online, while current patients can call us at 832-685-8240 or 346-843-8743.