What is what to do when your temporary crown falls out?

Okay, here's information on what to do when your temporary crown falls out, formatted in Markdown with linked important subjects:

My Temporary Crown Fell Out! What Do I Do?

It's not ideal, but temporary crowns do sometimes come loose. Here's what to do:

1. Don't Panic: It's usually not an emergency unless you're in significant pain or bleeding.

2. Retrieve the Crown: Carefully pick up the temporary crown. Rinse it gently with water.

3. Inspect the Crown and Your Tooth: Look at the inside of the crown. Is it clean? Also, check your prepared tooth. Is it sensitive or sharp? Is there any food or debris stuck on it? Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area.

4. Attempt to Re-Cement (If Possible and Appropriate):

   • Only If: You are not in pain, there's no sharp edges or sensitivity, and the crown fits well.
   • Get Temporary Cement: You can often find temporary dental cement (like Recapit or similar) at a drugstore or pharmacy.
   • Apply Cement: Follow the product instructions carefully. Usually, you'll apply a small amount of the temporary cement inside the crown.
   • Seat the Crown: Gently but firmly seat the crown back onto the prepared tooth. Bite down gently to ensure it's properly positioned. Remove any excess cement with a toothpick or floss.

5. If You Cannot Re-Cement: If you cannot re-cement the crown, keep it in a safe place.

6. Protect Your Tooth: If the tooth is sensitive, you can try using a dental wax (available at drugstores) or sugar-free gum to cover the prepared tooth. Be careful not to swallow it. Keeping the area as clean as possible by gently brushing is also important.

7. Contact Your Dentist Immediately: This is the most important step. You need to call your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment to have the temporary crown re-cemented or to discuss other options. Leaving the prepared tooth exposed for too long can lead to problems like:

   • Tooth Sensitivity: Your prepared tooth is likely to be more sensitive to temperature changes and pressure.
   • Tooth Movement: Adjacent teeth can shift, making it difficult for the final crown to fit properly.
   • Gum Irritation: The gums around the prepared tooth can become irritated or inflamed.

8. Follow Dentist's Instructions: Your dentist will examine the area and determine the best course of action. They may re-cement the temporary crown or take other necessary steps.

Important Considerations:

• Pain Relief: If you're experiencing pain, you can take over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Diet: While you have a missing temporary crown, avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods that could damage the prepared tooth or dislodge the adjacent teeth.
• Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss carefully around the area, but be gentle.

Key Takeaways:

• Protecting your prepared%20tooth is crucial.
• Re-cementing the temporary%20crown yourself is only a temporary solution.
• Contacting your dentist is essential for proper treatment.