Dental crowns are porcelain or ceramic caps that are placed over a tooth. These prosthetics have both cosmetic and restorative dental benefits. Once they are bonded securely to a tooth, they can only be removed by a dentist. Though they are durable enough to withstand permanent placement in your mouth, accidents can happen where a crown can fall out or break. You should contact a dental professional as soon as possible if this occurs. Our dentist in Laurel, MD, offers advice about what to do if your dental crowns become damaged.
Secure with dental glue
If your dental crown falls out, the exposed tooth can leave you with uncomfortable symptoms. You may experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and there may be a risk of harming the exposed tooth or surrounding teeth without the protection of the crown. Quick action is important. Dental glue can be found over the counter at many stores. This substance can secure your crown back into place until you can have the crown replaced by your dentist. The temporary fix can alleviate painful symptoms and avoid the risk of further damage to your teeth.
Schedule emergency dentist appointment
Though your dental crown may be secured with dental glue, this can only delay harm temporarily. You should call your dentist as soon as possible for an emergency appointment so that your dentist can assess the damage. Your dentist can permanently bond your crown to your tooth. If a new crown must be made, your dentist can provide a temporary crown for the continued protection of your teeth. Custom dental crowns usually take one or two weeks to be constructed in a dental laboratory.
Maintain healthy oral habits
Dental crowns are durable and can restore normal eating and speaking functions for patients. However, when under immense pressure, they are susceptible to dislodging or breaking. To protect your crowns, you should avoid biting hard items, including fingernails, ice, or the end of a pen. Patients who grind or clench their teeth should wear a mouthguard at night to prevent unconscious damage done while asleep.
Proper oral hygiene can protect your dental crowns as well. If your teeth and gums are clean and healthy, your crown can have the support it needs to remain in place. Good hygiene habits include brushing twice a day and flossing daily. With proper care, your dental crowns can last for 15 years.
Dental crowns and more in Laurel, MD
Laurel Smiles Dental Care offers dental crowns and repair to patients in Laurel, MD. also provides general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry in Laurel, MD to patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 301.200.1315.