Has Your Dental Crown Fell Off? Learn More on What to do Next
dental crown procedure

Has Your Dental Crown Fell Off? Learn More on What to do Next

If your dental crown has fell off, the first thing to know is, do not throw it away, because there is a possibility of its being cemented back. At Smile Angels of Beverly Hills, Dr. Bruce Vafa DDS, we’ve seen many patients have thrown away their dental crown, while we could easily cement the crown back to the tooth. This article will help you understand the most frequent causes of crown displacement, the measures to take in various cases, and a brief overview of possible costs.

Why Do Dental Crowns Fall Out?

A crown is a dental prosthesis fabricated to cover and strengthen a weakened tooth, thereby enabling the tooth to function properly. Although crowns are made to be tough and durable, you may notice that one becomes loose or falls off, for instance, when you bite on hard food, experience an accident in the mouth, or if the dental work done was not proper. In any event, if a crown becomes dislodged, it is best to seek a dental appointment in order to prevent further issues.

If Your Crown Falls Out, What Do You Do?

  • Rinse Your Mouth: Clean the area with warm salt water to ensure that no food particles accumulate.
  • Keep the Crown Safe: Place the fallen crown in a container or sealed bag and then visit the office. If it is not damaged, we may be able to cement it back into position.
  • Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Do not bite on the same side of the mouth to prevent the sensitive tooth from any additional harm.
  • Schedule an Appointment Promptly: We will examine the tooth and determine if we can reuse the previous crown or if a new one is needed.

Three Common Scenarios

Crown Fell Off a Healthy Tooth (No Root Canal)

If the tooth under the crown has a vital pulp, you may only feel tenderness, soreness, or slight discomfort. It is still important to visit your dentist as soon as possible, since the exposed area can easily develop cavities. Until your next appointment, brush and floss regularly, but be gentle around the affected area.

When to Seek Emergency Care:

In case of severe pain, facial swelling, or a suspected infection, contact us immediately. A healthy tooth usually does not lead to severe symptoms, but any discomfort should be addressed right away.

Crown Fell Off a Tooth with a Root Canal

If you had a root canal, then the tooth does not have a living pulp, so you may not feel any discomfort. Nevertheless, this should not be neglected. When a tooth is left without a cap, its structure becomes weaker, and bacteria can reach the area beneath the gums.

When to Seek Emergency Care:

If you notice swelling, fluid discharge, or a bad smell, you may have an infection that requires immediate treatment. Otherwise, schedule an appointment to ensure that the condition does not worsen.

Crown Fell Off a Dental Implant

Although this is rather rare, a crown that is attached to an implant can sometimes come off. In some instances, the abutment (the metal piece screwed into the implant and on which the crown is placed) may remain intact while the crown part comes off.

What to Do:

  • Check the Implant Site: If the abutment is still in place, do not attempt to put the crown back on by yourself.
  • Get in Touch with Your Dentist: If you do not feel pain or discomfort, it may not be a serious issue, but do not delay seeking professional assistance.
  • Keep the Crown: Store the crown properly and bring it with you so Dr. Vafa can determine if it can be cemented back.

What Does a Dental Crown Cost?

The cost of a new crown varies depending on the type of material used and the nature of the service rendered. A single crown treatment can range between \$1000 and \$2500 per tooth. Some factors that can affect the final cost include the type of material (porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or gold), laboratory fees, and the amount of work required.

Will Insurance Pay for This?

Most insurance plans cover the cost of a crown if it is considered a medical necessity. However, coverage amounts vary depending on your insurance policy. Some plans may require you to meet a deductible or make a co-payment toward the total cost.

Do Dental Implants Affect the Cost Coverage?

Implant procedures can be more intricate than traditional dental treatments. Some insurers provide coverage for implant crowns, but the extent of coverage can differ widely. It is always wise to check with your insurance provider about your policy so you know what costs you may be responsible for.

Is This an Emergency?

Whether you need an urgent dental visit depends on your symptoms:

  • Severe Pain or Signs of Infection: Swelling, pus, and constant severe pain are signs that you should contact us immediately.
  • Minor Sensitivity or No Pain: In many cases, you can wait a day or two, but do not delay your visit for too long. It is recommended that the tooth or implant site should not remain exposed, as it has a high risk of damage or decay.

Why Choose Dr. Bruce Vafa at Smile Angels of Beverly Hills?

Dr. Bruce Vafa DDS has earned a strong reputation in the field of cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Whether your crown can be reused or you need a new one, our specialists stand ready to provide the best possible service. Our goal is to preserve and enhance your smile, keep you pain-free, and ensure your comfort.

Final Takeaway

A loose or lost crown is more than just an aesthetic concern. It may harm the tooth or the implant if not addressed in a timely manner. At Smile Angels of Beverly Hills, Dr. Bruce Vafa DDS and his team will determine if the crown can be refitted or if a new one is necessary. We also offer information on insurance claims, potential costs, and preventive measures to avoid future mishaps. If your crown comes off, we recommend that you reach out to us so we can restore it and return you to a state of comfort.

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