What is what to do when a temporary crown falls off?

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

If your temporary crown falls off, it's important to take action to protect the prepared tooth. Here's what you should do:

• Don't Panic! It happens.

• Retrieve the Crown: Carefully find the temporary crown. If possible, gently rinse it with water. Do NOT use soap or toothpaste.

• Examine the Tooth: Check the prepared tooth underneath. It may be sensitive to temperature and air. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.

• Try to Recement (If Possible): If you feel comfortable and are able to do so, you can try to recement the temporary crown. You can purchase temporary dental cement (available at most drugstores). Follow the product instructions carefully. A helpful resource to understand this is to look at Temporary%20Crown%20Recementing.

  • Make sure the crown is clean and dry.
  • Apply a small amount of temporary cement inside the crown.
  • Carefully seat the crown back onto the prepared tooth.
  • Bite down gently to ensure it's properly positioned.
  • Remove any excess cement.

• If You Can't Recement: If you're unable to recement the crown, keep the crown safe and call your dentist as soon as possible.

• Contact Your Dentist Immediately: This is the most crucial step. Even if you successfully recemented the crown, you need to schedule an appointment with your dentist. The temporary cement is not a permanent solution, and the temporary crown needs to be replaced with the permanent one. Read more about it at Dental%20Visit%20After%20Crown%20Loss.

• Protect the Tooth While Waiting: While waiting for your appointment, take these precautions:

  • Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the prepared tooth.
  • Be extra diligent with your oral hygiene. Gently brush the area, being careful not to dislodge the tooth.
  • Consider using a desensitizing toothpaste if the tooth is sensitive. You might want to read this article as well Protecting%20Exposed%20Tooth

• Pain or Swelling: If you experience significant pain, swelling, or bleeding, contact your dentist immediately. You may have an infection.

It's important to address a lost temporary crown promptly to prevent further complications, such as shifting of teeth or sensitivity.