1209 Dundee Avenue Elgin, IL 60120
Lost a Crown or Filling? Temporary Fixes and When to Call the Dentist
Losing a dental crown or filling can be a stressful experience, especially if it happens unexpectedly. Whether it’s due to biting into something hard, decay weakening the tooth, or just wear and tear over time, a missing restoration leaves your tooth vulnerable to damage, sensitivity, and infection. Knowing how to handle the situation temporarily—and when to call the dentist—can save you from unnecessary pain and complications.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Immediate steps to take if you lose a crown or filling
- Temporary fixes to protect your tooth
- Risks of delaying treatment (exposed nerves, infections, and further damage)
- Pain management tips while waiting for professional care
- When to seek emergency dental services
- How dentists quickly restore protective structures
What to Do Immediately After Losing a Crown or Filling
If your crown or filling falls out, stay calm and follow these steps:
- Retrieve the Restoration (If Possible) – If your crown is intact, keep it in a safe place. In some cases, your dentist may be able to reattach it.
- Rinse Your Mouth – Use warm salt water to clean the area and remove debris.
- Inspect the Tooth – Check for sharp edges or exposed nerves, which can cause pain.
- Avoid Chewing on That Side – Protect the tooth from further damage.
Temporary Fixes for a Lost Crown or Filling
While waiting to see your dentist, these temporary solutions can help:
For a Lost Crown:
- Dental Cement or Temporary Adhesive – Available at most pharmacies, these can temporarily reattach the crown.
- Dental Wax or Sugar-Free Gum – Can cover sharp edges to prevent irritation.
- Avoid Hot/Cold Foods – Exposed teeth are highly sensitive.
For a Lost Filling:
- Over-the-Counter Temporary Filling Material – Brands like Dentemp can provide short-term protection.
- Clove Oil – A natural pain reliever for tooth sensitivity.
Note: These are not permanent solutions—always call the dentist as soon as possible.
Risks of Delaying Treatment
Ignoring a lost crown or filling can lead to serious complications:
- Exposed Nerves – Without protection, the tooth’s inner nerves can become irritated, leading to severe pain.
- Tooth Decay & Infection – Bacteria can enter the exposed area, causing cavities or abscesses.
- Further Damage – Cracks or fractures may develop, requiring more extensive (and costly) treatments like root canals or extractions.
Pain Management Until You See a Dentist
While waiting for your appointment, try these pain relief methods:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
- Cold compress to reduce swelling
- Avoid extreme temperatures (hot coffee, ice cream)
When to Call the Dentist Immediately
Some situations require urgent care. Call the dentist right away if you experience:
- Severe, throbbing pain (possible nerve exposure)
- Swelling, fever, or signs of infection
- A completely broken tooth
Emergency dental services can quickly restore your tooth’s protective structure, preventing long-term damage.
How Dentists Restore Lost Crowns & Fillings
Depending on the situation, your dentist may:
- Reattach the original crown (if undamaged)
- Place a new filling to seal the tooth
- Fabricate a new crown if the old one is unusable
- Perform a root canal if infection is present
At Smiles of Elgin, our team provides prompt, expert care to relieve pain and restore your smile. If you’ve lost a crown or filling, don’t wait—call us at 847-695-3368 or visit smilesofelgin.com to schedule an appointment.
Final Thoughts
A lost crown or filling isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a dental emergency waiting to happen. Temporary fixes can help in the short term, but only a dentist can provide a lasting solution. If you’re experiencing pain or sensitivity, don’t hesitate to call the dentist for professional care. Your teeth deserve the best protection!
Office Hours
| Monday | 10:00 to 6:00 |
| Tuesday | 10:00 to 6:00 |
| Wednesday | 11:00 to 8:00 |
| Thursday | 10:00 to 6:00 |
| Friday | 10:00 to 6:00 |
| Saturday | 8:00 to 3:00 |
| Sunday | Appointment only |
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