A dental crown is a ceramic cap that fits over your tooth and is sealed for a long-lasting restorative dental treatment. With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can last up to fifteen years.
However, accidents can happen, and abnormal pressure can cause your crown to dislodge or break. Dr. Jim Lassiter, a dentist in Milton, FL, outlines steps you can take if you suffer from a damaged dental crown.
Call Your Dentist Right Away
A damaged dental crown is considered a dental emergency. A crown that has fallen out can leave your affected tooth vulnerable to further damage.
You may notice tooth sensitivity as well due to exposed dentin without the dental crown’s coverage. Your dentist can provide you with advice to help with any painful symptoms over the phone.
You should contact your dental professional as soon as you can when you notice the damage to your crown. They can schedule an emergency dentist appointment for you to repair or replace the dental crown.
Prepare for Emergency Dentist Appointment
When you arrive for your emergency dentist appointment, your dentist will examine your mouth for signs of any additional damage to your teeth besides your crown. They will complete any necessary work and then replace your crown.
If the crown is intact, the dentist can secure it back into place. You might need a new dental crown to be made if your crown has been damaged too much.
Your dentist will provide you with a temporary crown while a replacement is being constructed. You might have to return to the dentist at a later time when the new crown is ready to have it permanently placed over your tooth.
Prevent Future Dental Crown Damage
Once your dental crown is in place again, you will want to preserve it and protect it from further harm. Abnormal amounts of pressure can dislodge or break your dental crown, so you should avoid biting down on hard objects such as fingernails, ice, or the end of a pen.
You should also talk to your dentist if you grind or clench your teeth. Your dentist might recommend that you wear a mouthguard at night to protect your crown and teeth from damage that might occur from teeth grinding while you sleep.
Dental Crown Procedures and More in Milton, FL
Dr. Lassiter performs dental crown procedures and other restorative dental treatments for patients in Milton, FL. Our practice also specializes in cosmetic and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 850.203.3318.