What to Do When Your Crown Breaks
When you have a dental crown, you expect it to last for years, providing a seamless and natural-looking restoration for your tooth. However, despite the durability of dental crowns, they can occasionally break. If you find yourself in a situation where your crown has broken, it’s essential to know how to handle the situation promptly to prevent further damage and ensure your oral health remains intact. Here’s a guide on what to do when your crown breaks.
First Steps
1. Do Not Panic: It’s natural to feel worried or uncomfortable when your dental crown breaks. However, staying calm is crucial. Take a deep breath and try to remain composed.
2. Keep the Pieces: If any pieces of the crown have broken off, keep them in a safe place. This will be helpful for your dentist to understand the extent of the damage and to create a new crown if necessary.
3. Avoid Eating or Drinking: To prevent any further damage to your tooth or the surrounding gums, avoid eating or drinking anything until you can see a dentist. Also, be cautious while brushing your teeth to prevent any broken pieces from being swallowed.
4. Temporarily Seal the Tooth: If the broken crown has left a gap or exposed the tooth, you can temporarily seal the area with dental cement or toothpaste. This will help protect the tooth from sensitivity and bacteria.
5. Seek Immediate Dental Care: Contact your dentist as soon as possible. Explain the situation and ask for an urgent appointment. Delaying treatment can lead to increased pain, infection, or further damage to the tooth.
Preventative Measures
To avoid future occurrences of a broken crown, consider the following preventative measures:
1. Avoid Hard Foods: Be cautious while eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can put extra stress on your dental crown.
2. Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular dental appointments to monitor the condition of your crown and address any potential issues early on.
3. Good Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene practices to keep your teeth and gums healthy, which can contribute to the longevity of your dental crown.
4. Use a Soft-Bristled Brush: When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled brush to minimize the risk of damaging your dental crown.
In conclusion, if your dental crown breaks, it’s essential to take immediate action to protect your tooth and seek professional dental care. By following these steps and taking preventative measures, you can help ensure the longevity of your dental crown and maintain your oral health.
