What is what to do when a crown falls out?

Okay, here's information about what to do when a crown falls out, formatted in Markdown with links as requested:

My Crown Fell Out! What Do I Do?

It's alarming when a dental crown comes loose, but try to stay calm. Here's what to do:

1. Retrieve the Crown: Carefully remove the crown from your mouth. Rinse it gently with water. Do not use toothpaste, as this can be abrasive.

2. Examine the Crown: Look for any obvious damage. If the crown appears intact, you may be able to temporarily re-cement it (see below). If it's cracked or broken, you'll need a new one.

3. Check Your Mouth: Examine the tooth where the crown came off. Be aware that it may be sensitive to temperature and pressure.

4. Pain Management: If you experience sensitivity or pain, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. You can also apply a desensitizing toothpaste to the exposed tooth.

5. Protect the Tooth: The exposed tooth is now vulnerable to damage and decay. Try to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. You can purchase temporary dental cement at most drugstores to cover the tooth. Follow the package instructions carefully. Do not use super glue or other household adhesives.

6. Contact Your Dentist Immediately: A dislodged crown needs professional attention. Call your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. The sooner you get in, the better the chance they can re-cement the original crown. Explain the situation and that you need to be seen urgently.

7. Temporarily Re-Cementing the Crown (Optional): If the crown is intact and you can't get to the dentist right away, you may attempt to re-cement it temporarily using over-the-counter dental cement.

   • Clean the inside of the crown and the tooth thoroughly.
   • Dry both the crown and the tooth.
   • Apply a small amount of dental cement to the inside of the crown.
   • Carefully seat the crown over the tooth, making sure it's properly aligned.
   • Bite down gently but firmly for several minutes.
   • Remove any excess cement.
   • This is not a permanent solution. You still need to see your dentist.

8. While Waiting for Your Appointment: Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods that could dislodge the temporary crown or further damage the exposed tooth. Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing gently and flossing carefully.

Important Considerations:

• A lost crown can expose the underlying tooth structure, leading to sensitivity, discomfort, and potential damage. Seeking prompt dental care is crucial.
• Trying to permanently fix the crown yourself is not recommended, as it can lead to further complications.
• If you swallowed the crown, it will generally pass through your system without harm, but inform your dentist of this when you call.

Here are some important subjects:

• Retrieve the Crown
• Check Your Mouth
• Pain Management
• Protect the Tooth
• Contact Your Dentist Immediately
• Temporarily Re-Cementing the Crown (Optional)