If your dental crown suddenly falls out, it can feel a little alarming — but don’t panic! While it’s not usually a dental emergency, it’s something that should be looked at by your dentist as soon as possible.
Crowns can come loose or fall out for a number of reasons. The key is to stay calm, protect the tooth, and book a prompt appointment to have it checked.
Here’s what to do if your crown falls out — and what to expect at your dental visit.
🦷 Why Do Crowns Fall Out?
Dental crowns are designed to be long-lasting, but they can occasionally come loose due to:
- Old or weakened dental cement
- Tooth decay under the crown
- Wear and tear over time (especially if the crown is 10+ years old)
- Grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism)
- Sticky foods pulling on the crown
- Accidental trauma (biting something hard, injury, etc.)
✅ What to Do If Your Crown Falls Out
If your crown falls out, follow these steps:
- Remove it from your mouth (if it hasn’t already come out). If it’s loose but still attached, gently take it out to avoid swallowing or choking.
- Keep the crown. Place it in a small, clean container or sealed bag. Bring it to your dental appointment — in some cases, it can be cleaned and re-cemented.
- Call your dentist right away. Even if there’s no pain, you’ll want to book an appointment as soon as possible to avoid damage or infection. Let the clinic know it’s a lost crown — many offices will prioritize you for a quick repair.
- Protect the exposed tooth. Without the crown, the underlying tooth is more sensitive and vulnerable to decay or breakage. Until your appointment:
- Avoid chewing on that side
- Stick to soft foods
- Brush gently
- Use sensitive toothpaste if needed
If you’re feeling discomfort, a small amount of dental wax or temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies) may help protect the area — but only as a short-term solution.
⚠️ When to Seek Urgent Care
Contact your dentist right away if:
- The tooth underneath is painful or bleeding
- You swallowed the crown
- You see visible cracks or damage to the remaining tooth
- You notice signs of infection (swelling, pus, bad taste)
🛠 Can the Crown Be Reused?
In many cases — yes. If the crown is:
- Still intact and not cracked
- The underlying tooth is healthy
- The original fit was good
…your dentist may be able to clean and re-cement it.
If the crown is damaged or the tooth has changed shape (due to wear, decay, or fracture), you may need a new custom crown.
🧼 How to Prevent Future Crown Failures
To help your crown last longer:
- Avoid chewing on very hard or sticky foods
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Brush and floss daily, especially around the crown margin
- See your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
- Let your dental team know if your crown ever feels loose
Most dental crowns last 10–15 years or longer with proper care.
Final Thoughts
If your crown falls out, it may be unsettling — but it’s a common and fixable issue. Acting quickly helps prevent further damage and increases the chance that your existing crown can be saved.
Lost a crown? We’ve got you covered. Our team offers prompt, comfortable crown repairs and replacements to restore your smile quickly and safely. Call us today to schedule your visit — and don’t forget to bring the crown with you if you have it!