A loose dental crown or lost filling can seem to occur out of nowhere but usually, it’s caused by a piece of sticky candy, wear and tear over time, and/or tooth decay weakening it from underneath. No matter the cause, the most important thing is to act quickly to protect your exposed tooth before further damage sets in.
Without protection, food debris and bacteria can get in, leading to infections, sensitivity, and additional time in a dental chair.
Signs Of A Loose Crown Or Filling
A dental crown or dental filling is meant to stay firmly in place, however, when it starts to come loose, you’ll probably notice a difference. Below are some signs that your permanent crown or amalgam filling is loose:
- Tooth sensitivity, especially sudden pain when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet
- A noticeable wiggling or shifting sensation in the affected tooth
- Pain or throbbing, especially when biting down
- Food getting stuck at the gum line where the crown or filling meets the tooth
- Visible cracks or fractures in the crown or filling
- A rough or uneven surface where a filling falls out
Below are some proactive things you can do before your next dental appointment:
Keep Your Mouth As Clean As Possible
Cleaning your mouth is vital to stop further decay or to prevent potential issues like a damaged tooth or infection. You’ll want to gently brush the affected tooth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinse with warm salt water to remove bacteria.
Avoid Sticky Or Acidic Foods
Certain foods can increase sensitivity, cause pain, or even dislodge your dental crown or fillings further. Be sure to avoid chewing on the affected side and steer clear of sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum, as they can pull out a crown entirely. Acidic foods and drinks, like citrus and sodas, can also worsen decay.
Use A Numbing Gel For Pain And Sensitivity
When a dental crown or glass ionomer filling falls out, it can expose sensitive nerves, making every bite and sip feel unbearable. You can help ease the discomfort by applying clove oil with a cotton swab to the affected area as it’s a natural numbing agent that can provide quick relief. Over-the-counter numbing gels can also help dull the pain.
Can You Prevent A Crown Or Filling From Falling Out?
While dental crowns and dental fillings aren’t invincible, proper care can help them last longer and prevent unnecessary trips to the dentist. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to catch early signs of wear, weakening cement, or tooth decay that could lead to a loose dental crown or failing fillings.
Loose Crown Or Filling? Contact Dental House
A loose dental crown or lost filling can be a precursor to potential tooth decay, sensitivity, and infection.
If you need help fast, skip the DIY fixes and search for an emergency dentist near me. At Dental House, we provide emergency dental care to restore your smile before things spiral into a painful, costly mess. Call now or make an appointment online today!