What to Do If You Have a Broken Dental Crown

What to Do If You Have a Broken Dental Crown

June 1, 2024

A dental crown plays a crucial role in protecting and restoring a damaged tooth, helping to maintain both functionality and appearance. However, like any dental restoration, crowns aren’t indestructible. From accidents to normal wear and tear, there are various causes that can lead to a broken dental crown. When this happens, it’s essential to act quickly and seek dental assistance to prevent further damage and discomfort. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to take if you find yourself with a broken dental crown, ensuring you know how to protect your oral health and get back to your natural smile as soon as possible.

Understanding Dental Crowns and Their Role

Dental crowns are essential in modern dentistry, serving as a protective cover for a damaged tooth. These crowns are custom-made to fit over the tooth, restoring its shape, size, and function while also mimicking the appearance of natural teeth. By encasing the weakened or compromised tooth, a dental crown provides much-needed support, helping to prevent further damage and maintain the overall structure of the tooth.

There are different types of dental crowns available, each with its own benefits. Common options include porcelain, ceramic, metal, and composite crowns. The choice of material can affect the crown’s durability and longevity, with most crowns lasting around 15 years or more with proper care. However, the lifespan can vary depending on factors like the patient’s oral hygiene habits and the type of crown used.

Common Reasons Why Dental Crowns Break

Dental crowns are designed to be durable, but they’re not indestructible. Several factors can cause dental crowns to break or become damaged over time. One of the most common reasons is teeth grinding (bruxism), which puts excessive pressure on the crown, leading to cracks or breaks. Wear and tear from regular use, especially after 15 years or more, can also weaken the crown, making it more susceptible to damage.

Accidents, such as biting down on hard objects or suffering a blow to the mouth, can cause an immediate broken dental crown. The type of crown used can also play a role; some materials are more prone to damage than others. Additionally, poor oral hygiene can lead to decay around the base of the crown, compromising its integrity and making it more likely to break.

It’s important to be aware of the signs that your dental crown may be compromised before it actually breaks. If you notice any discomfort, sensitivity, or a change in the crown’s fit, it’s a good idea to consult your dentist. Early detection and treatment can prevent a minor issue from turning into a significant problem.

Immediate Steps to Take When a Dental Crown Breaks

Discovering that your dental crown has broken can be alarming, but knowing the right steps to take can help you manage the situation effectively. First, it’s essential to stay calm and take immediate action to protect your tooth and minimize any discomfort.

Start by carefully rinsing your mouth with warm water to clean the area and remove any debris. This simple step can help prevent infection and keep the affected area clean. If possible, try to locate the broken dental crown or any pieces that have come loose; keeping these can be helpful when you see your dentist.

Next, it’s important to assess the damage and determine the severity of the break. If the tooth beneath the crown is exposed or if you’re experiencing significant pain, you may need to seek dental care urgently. In cases where the break is minor and you’re not in pain, you might be able to wait a short time for an appointment.

To manage any immediate discomfort, consider using counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These can help reduce pain and inflammation until you can see your dentist. Additionally, if you’re unable to see a dentist right away, applying a temporary crown or dental cement from a local pharmacy can protect the damaged tooth temporarily.

Potential Treatment Options for a Broken Dental Crown

When a dental crown breaks, it’s essential to see a dentist as soon as possible. During the appointment, the dentist will thoroughly examine the affected area to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action. Depending on the severity of the break, several treatment options are available.

In minor cases where only a small piece of the crown has chipped, the dentist may be able to repair the existing dental crown. However, if the damaged tooth underneath is exposed, a more extensive treatment may be required. This could include replacing the crown entirely with a new one, potentially opting for a more durable type of crown to prevent future issues.

In some cases, the damage might affect not only the crown but also the underlying tooth. If the break is severe and exposes the tooth’s nerve, a root canal may be necessary to remove the damaged pulp and protect the tooth from further infection. Once the root canal is completed, a permanent crown will be placed to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.

If the underlying tooth is too compromised to support another crown, dental implants might be considered. Implants provide a permanent solution, replacing the lost tooth entirely with an artificial root and crown. No matter the severity, the dentist will ensure that the right treatment is chosen to restore the integrity of the affected area and prevent further complications.

Preventing Future Dental Crown Breaks

Preventing a dental crown from breaking again involves taking proactive steps to protect your oral health. One of the most important measures is avoiding hard foods that could put excessive pressure on the crown, such as ice, hard candies, and nuts. If teeth grinding is an issue, wearing a night guard can help minimize the wear and tear that leads to cracks or breaks.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is also essential. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can prevent decay and other issues that could compromise the integrity of your crown. It’s crucial to address any dental problems early to prevent further damage to your natural teeth and crowns.

Book Your Appointment with Cottage Dental Today

If you have a broken dental crown, taking quick action is essential to protect your oral health. Following the steps outlined above can help you manage the situation and prevent further damage. Remember, a broken dental crown isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it can lead to more serious dental problems if left untreated. Whether you need a temporary fix or a permanent solution, getting professional dental care as soon as possible is crucial.

For expert assistance with a broken dental crown or any other dental concerns, contact Cottage Dental in Fullerton, California, to schedule your next appointment. Our team is here to provide the care and solutions you need to maintain a healthy, confident smile.

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