Understanding Broken Dental Crowns
A broken or loose dental crown can be a concerning issue, but there are temporary solutions you can try at home while waiting to see your dentist. It’s important to note that these are short-term fixes and professional dental care should be sought as soon as possible.
Steps to Temporarily Fix a Broken Crown
1. Clean the crown and tooth
Gently brush the inside of the crown and the exposed tooth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild toothpaste. This removes any debris or old adhesive that might prevent proper reattachment.
2. Dry the area
Use a clean cloth or cotton swab to carefully dry both the crown and tooth. Moisture can interfere with the adhesive’s effectiveness.
3. Apply temporary dental cement
Purchase over-the-counter temporary dental cement from a pharmacy or grocery store. Follow the product instructions carefully to apply a thin layer inside the crown.
4. Reposition the crown
Gently place the crown back onto your tooth, ensuring it’s in the correct position. Bite down softly to secure it in place.
5. Remove excess cement
Use a toothpick to carefully remove any excess cement that may have squeezed out around the edges of the crown.
Alternative Temporary Solutions
• Toothpaste: In a pinch, a small amount of toothpaste can act as a temporary adhesive.
• Sugar-free gum: Softened sugar-free gum can be used to hold the crown in place briefly.
Precautions and Aftercare
• Avoid chewing on the side with the repaired crown
• Stick to soft foods until you can see your dentist
• Continue gentle brushing and flossing around the area
• If you experience pain or swelling, contact your dentist immediately
When to Seek Professional Help
Remember, home remedies are temporary solutions. Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to have the crown properly repaired or replaced. Delaying professional treatment can lead to further complications or damage to your tooth.