A lost dental crown might be a minor problem for one patient and a catastrophe for another. So what's the difference, and why does a missing dental crown sometimes require emergency dental care?
Crown Preparation
Cast your mind back to when your crown was first fitted. It capped the entire tooth (and crowns are sometimes called dental caps), and the tooth had to undergo preparation before its ceramic crown could be added. By removing an ultra-slim layer of the tooth's outer structure, the crowned tooth is no bulkier than the tooth was prior to treatment—avoiding uncomfortable friction and pressure on surrounding teeth. This is the reason for removing a layer of the tooth's outer enamel.
External Forces
The removal of a layer of protective enamel means the tooth is more sensitive to external temperatures, and is more susceptible to penetration by oral bacteria. This isn't in fact a problem for the long-term health of the tooth. Once the crown is fitted, the tooth is protected, with the ceramic shell serving the same function as dental enamel. But the loss of a crown may trigger immediate sensitivity in the tooth—and it may be inaccurate to describe this as mere sensitivity.
Sensitivity and Pain
If the loss of your dental crown has led to heightened sensitivity and even pain in the tooth, you must seek immediate, emergency dental care. Relief is simply not possible without professional treatment. Consuming food or drink may cause an excruciating reaction in the tooth. Even closing your mouth (causing the tooth to make contact with its counterpart in the opposing dental arch) can be painful. If your own dentist cannot accommodate you (or if the issue occurs outside of typical treatment hours), contact an emergency dentist.
A Retained Crown
Were you able to retain the lost crown? This can be possible if it detached during eating and wasn't swallowed. If you can, bring the crown to your appointment. Treatment can be as simple as applying a new coat of adhesive to your tooth and reattaching the crown. This will once again isolate the tooth's nerve, and your sensitivity will rapidly subside. But alternatively, what if you accidentally swallowed your crown?
A Lost Crown
A swallowed crown requires another solution. An emergency dentist will fit a pre-made temporary crown and will secure it with temporary adhesive. The crown will be made of resin, and won't be as strong as a permanent ceramic crown. However, this resin crown will protect your tooth until such time as your usual dentist can arrange for a new, permanent ceramic crown to be manufactured and fitted.
A lost dental crown might not be an obvious dental emergency, but when accompanied by extreme sensitivity, treatment cannot be delayed. For more information on emergency dental care, contact a company near you.
Share8 June 2023
Hello, my name is Jeremy Richards. Welcome to my site about dental care. I recently had to live with a severe cavity for several months while seeking out a qualified dentist. Since I was between insurance coverage plans, I had plenty of time to explore my options. When I could finally see the dentist, the tooth decay had advanced to a serious stage. The dentist used his skills and expertise to remove the decayed material and close up the hole for good. My site will cover information about selecting a dentist, going through procedures and caring for your teeth. Please visit often to learn more.