Dental crowns are common dental prosthetics that dentists use in restorative dentistry. These remarkable, tooth-shaped prosthetics help cover and protect a damaged or decayed tooth, keeping it safe from continued harm.
Think your smile could benefit from dental crowns? Contact Dr. Julie Glud at Dental Care of Lombard today. Our team can help you explore your options and choose a treatment that enhances and strengthens your smile. Contact our dental office in Lombard, IL, at (630) 629-5700 to learn more!
While dental crowns (sometimes called caps) are durable, there are instances where they may break or go missing. Dealing with a broken or missing cap can be concerning, but knowing what to do in such a situation can help minimize discomfort and prevent further complications.
Remain Calm
While it may be tempting to panic, staying composed will help you handle the situation more effectively.
Next, try to assess the extent of the damage. If the crown is partially broken but still in place, try to avoid further damage by not biting on that side of your mouth. If the crown is completely missing, examine the area to ensure there are no sharp edges that could harm your tongue or cheeks.
Contact a Dentist ASAP
It’s crucial to contact a dentist as soon as possible. Schedule an appointment with our dentist to address the issue promptly.
Tame Any Pain
If you experience pain or discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
Avoid using topical numbing gels or creams without consulting your dentist, as they may not be suitable for all situations and could potentially cause further issues.
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, especially when dealing with a broken or missing dental cap. So, continue to brush and floss your teeth very gently, but be extremely careful around the affected area. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid causing additional damage.
Rinsing with saltwater or an antiseptic mouthwash can help keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.
Eat Mindfully
While waiting for your dental appointment, be mindful of your diet. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the broken or missing crown, and steer clear of hard or sticky foods that could exacerbate the situation.
Opt for softer foods, chew slowly, and try to distribute your chewing evenly on the unaffected side of your mouth.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
During your dental appointment, our dentist can assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action.
In some cases, we may be able to re-cement the crown if it is undamaged. However, if the crown is damaged or if there are issues with the underlying tooth, a new crown may be necessary.
Our dentist will discuss the available options with you and recommend the most suitable solution for your specific situation.
Custom-Made Dental Crowns in Lombard, IL
Dealing with a broken or missing dental crown requires a calm and proactive approach. If you’re currently dealing with a dental cap crisis, contact Dental Care of Lombard today. You can reach our team online anytime, or you can call us at (630) 629-5700 for more help and scheduling.
