Updated on June 21, 2024
1 min read

Question from Our Readers: Temporary Crown Fell

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Reader Question: My temporary crown fell out while I was eating. Is this an emergency, and what should I do until I can see my dentist?

The first thing is not to panic. Temporary crowns are designed to come off easily, so it’s unlikely that any major damage has occurred.

Here’s a checklist of things you can do until you see your dentist:

  1. Locate the crown, clean it with warm water, and gently set it aside. Don’t worry too much if you can’t find it⁠—your dentist can make you a new one.
  2. Check the tooth covered by the crown.
  3. If it has sharp or jagged edges, try covering it with a small piece of sugarless gum or orthodontic wax to prevent it from hurting your tongue or cheek.
  4. If the exposed tooth feels sensitive, you can try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water.
  5. You should also apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help manage any discomfort.
  6. Contact your dentist as soon as possible to let them know what happened.

Your dentist can tell you what to do and schedule an appointment. In the meantime, avoid chewing on that side and eating sticky or hard foods that can irritate the exposed tooth.

Is it common for a temporary crown to fall out?

Yes, it’s relatively common for a temporary crown to fall out. It’s not a dental emergency that requires immediate attention.

However, it’s important to protect the exposed tooth as much as possible to prevent sensitivity and reduce the risk of infection or decay. 

Your dentist can re-cement the crown or make a new one to protect the tooth. If you experience any pain, swelling, or discomfort, contact your dentist for further guidance.

Last updated on June 21, 2024
Last updated on June 21, 2024
All NewMouth content is medically reviewed and fact-checked by a licensed dentist or orthodontist to ensure the information is factual, current, and relevant.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only cite from current scientific research, such as scholarly articles, dentistry textbooks, government agencies, and medical journals. This also includes information provided by the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
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