No one really expects a dental emergency to happen. Since dental crowns are adhered to teeth with a special dental cement, having one fall out of your mouth can be especially surprising!
Ultimately, you’re not likely to experience this dental disaster, but knowing what to do if it ever does happen can help you feel more confident and prepared in the moment. Follow these tips, and your emergency dentist in Jacksonville will be able to take care of the rest.
Secure Your Crown
Unless you’re experiencing pain or bleeding from a physical accident, the first thing you should do after losing a dental crown is try to find and secure it. There is a small possibility you swallowed your crown, but if this is the case, you should be able to pass it safely. If you are able to find your crown, carefully clean it with lukewarm water and toothpaste. Then keep it in a safe container so you don’t forget to take it to your dentist.
Check on Your Natural Teeth
It’s a good idea to inspect your natural teeth, even if you don’t seem to be injured. Though not common, your crown may have cut your soft oral tissue or chipped a pearly white on its way out. In either case, rinse your mouth with a salt water solution to help wash out bacteria and debris.
Call Your Emergency Dentist
Once you’ve taken care of yourself, give your emergency dentist a call. A lost dental crown isn’t always a same-day urgency, but it is important to get your vulnerable tooth protected as soon as possible. Your emergency dentist will help you book a timely appointment, and can provide you with instructions for taking care of your tooth while you wait.
Your Emergency Dental Appointment
When it’s time to visit your dentist for your emergency appointment, they’ll show you back to a treatment room and examine your mouth and crown (if you were able to find it). As long as your crown isn’t too damaged, they’ll recement it to the appropriate tooth. Otherwise, they’ll likely provide you with a temporary crown and arrange to have it replaced entirely.
You might feel startled if you lose a dental crown, but rest assured – this dental emergency is highly treatable. Your dentist will be ready to restore your smile when you need them most!
About the Practice
Dr. Ryan Johnson and Dr. Rose Johnson are highly experienced dentists in Jacksonville. They treat their patients with compassion and patience, and understand that losing a dental crown can be quite alarming. If you experience this dental emergency, they’ll schedule you for the next available appointment and make sure you and your smile are well taken care of. To request a same-day emergency appointment, contact their office directly at 904-895-4536.