If you’ve ever had a cavity, you’ve probably had a filling. Fillings today are made of advanced amalgams, but older fillings contained metals, including silver and mercury. Older fillings may become loose or break apart, and the tooth will require dental restoration. Crowns, too, may become loose or completely separated from the root or implant. If the crown is lost or you have swallowed it, the crown will require replacement.
Crowns and fillings are protection against further decay at cavity or implant sites. If you have a loose filling or crown, while typically not an emergency, you should give it immediate attention, as you may experience discomfort, sensitivity to temperature, or moderate or severe pain that is likely to worsen over time.
Lost Crown? Broken Filling? Take these steps
Even if you feel little or no pain, you should call your dentist at the Smile Center Family Dentistry before the lost filling or crown creates other dental problems.
- If your lost or loose filling or crown does hurt, you can manage moderate pain from a loose crown or filling with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and aspirin.
- If possible, rinse the crown and slip it over the exposed tooth to protect the area around the tooth. Covering the tooth can help alleviate pain and may protect against discomfort from heat and cold. However, before you make strides to fit the crown back on the tooth, be sure to thoroughly rinse the inside.
- You may purchase an over-the-counter dental or crown cement that will allow you to hold your crown in place while you wait for the repair. (This is a temporary fix only!)
- Call your dental office.
Always discuss at-home treatments with your dental professional at the Smile Center before trying them yourself.
Treating Broken or Loose Fillings and Crowns
Replacing fillings and crowns is typically not an emergency situation. Your dentist will explore the options for treating the missing filling or crown with you. Whether you need a new filling, a new crown, or just a quick repair, the right dental professional is always on hand at the Smile Center Family Dentistry.
