Lost Filling or Crown? Quick Fixes and When to Schedule Emergency Care

Dental fillings and crowns are designed to protect and restore your teeth, but accidents happen. Whether you bite down on something hard, notice sudden sensitivity, or simply feel that something is “off,” a lost filling or crown can be alarming. The good news is that knowing what to do right away can help minimize discomfort and prevent further damage until you’re able to see your dentist.

Why Fillings and Crowns Come Loose

There are several reasons why a restoration may fall out, including:

• Wear and tear from years of chewing

• Tooth decay forming around the edges of a filling or crown

• Biting down on hard foods such as ice or nuts

• Old dental work that has reached the end of its lifespan

Regardless of the cause, a missing filling or crown leaves your tooth vulnerable to sensitivity, pain, or even infection.

Quick Fixes at Home

If your filling or crown comes out, here are a few steps you can take before seeing your dentist:

• Keep the area clean: Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to remove food particles and reduce bacteria.

• Protect the tooth: Over-the-counter dental cement (available at most pharmacies) can provide a temporary seal. Avoid using superglue or other non-dental adhesives.

• Manage discomfort: If you’re experiencing sensitivity or pain, an over-the-counter pain reliever can help. Avoid very hot, cold, or sweet foods.

• Save the crown if possible: If your crown comes off, keep it in a safe place. In some cases, it may be re-cemented during your dental visit.

These steps are not permanent solutions, but they can help protect your tooth until professional care is available.

When to Schedule Emergency Dental Care

Not every lost filling or crown requires an immediate trip to the dentist, but you should schedule emergency care if you experience:

• Severe tooth pain or throbbing

• Sharp edges that cut your tongue or cheek

• Swelling in the gums or face

• A crown loss on a front tooth affecting your smile

Even if your tooth feels fine, it’s important to schedule an appointment promptly. Leaving a tooth exposed for too long increases the risk of decay, infection, or damage.

Relieve Pain and Restore Your Smile in Rancho Murieta

A lost filling or crown can be stressful, but acting quickly makes a big difference. Temporary fixes can protect your tooth in the short term, but professional treatment is the only way to restore your smile and prevent long-term complications.

If you lose a filling or crow, contact Murieta Dental to schedule an appointment and get your smile back on track. Visit our office in Rancho Murieta, California, or call (916) 656-0036 today.