What to Do When You Lose a Filling or Crown Unexpectedly

Losing a crown or filling can be unsettling, but hey, it’s not the end of the world! You’re not the first to lose a crown or filling. And you don’t really need an emergency dentist in Vaughan unless you have severe tooth pain. Fillings and crowns can loosen or fall out from simple wear & tear, knocks, or chewing something too hard. Quick action is critical in such a situation, but without panic. Here’s how to protect the exposed tooth and lessen tooth sensitivity until you see a dentist in Vaughan.

1. Protect the Tooth & Preserve the Crown

The first action is to gently rinse out the mouth with warm water. Adding a little salt to the water helps disinfect the area and ease minor discomfort. Do not scrub or poke at the exposed spot—you just want to keep the area clean. 

If you still have the crown, store it in a clean container or a zip bag after wrapping it in cotton. Your dentist in Vaughan might be able to refit an intact crown. Avoid chewing on the side where the tooth is exposed. The surface underneath is fragile and sensitive, and chewing from there could cause more pain or damage to the underlying tooth structure. It’s natural to feel a bit of panic, but you can think clearly and take the right action with a calm head.

2. Managing Sensitivity & Pain at Home

The tooth roots under your crown or filling are exposed when the filling or dental crown pops out. This may trigger a dull ache or a sharp sting when eating or drinking. Such sensitivity can be curbed by applying dental wax or temporary dental cement available at pharmacies. Gently apply a small amount to temporarily cover the sensitive area to keep food particles from irritating the tooth. This fix can make the sensitivity bearable and buy time till you see your dentist in Vaughan. 

You can also take ibuprofen or acetaminophen tablets for pain.  Otherwise, apply a little clove oil to the tooth with a cotton swab for a natural numbing effect. Play it safe with food by skipping hot soups, ice cream, hard candies, and anything sticky. Take soft, lukewarm foods that won’t aggravate the tooth or dislodge any temporary coverage. However, don’t wait if the pain escalates—see an emergency dentist in Vaughan right away! 

3. Contact Your Dentist 

A missing filling or crown isn’t something to wait out. Your exposed tooth is vulnerable to damage and infection. So, call your dentist in Vaughan once you’ve rinsed and protected the area. Describe how the crown or filling came loose and any pain or sensitivity you’re feeling. He may offer further advice for protecting the tooth and give you time for an appointment. Ideally, your dentist will be able to refix the crown if it’s intact. If not, he’ll put a new filling or craft a new crown. 

The Last Word

A lost crown or filling might not always be a dental emergency, but it does need quick action. Rinsing, protecting the tooth, and calling your dentist can curb unnecessary pain and prevent complications. Dislodged crown or a lost filling? Don’t stress. Breathe, follow the above steps, and connect with a trusted emergency dentist in Vaughan at Mackenzie Dental Centre. Our skilled dentists will restore your healthy, pain-free smile in a jiffy! 

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