Broken Dental Crown Emergency Treatment in Mississauga, ON

Did Your Dental Crown Break or Fall Out? East Credit Dental Can Help

A dental crown is a prosthetic cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Despite their durability, dental crowns can sometimes suffer damage, requiring dental emergency treatment to prevent further complications.

If you need to fix a broken crown on your tooth, you may be wondering what steps to take immediately. Contact East Credit Dental immediately if you’re looking for treatment. Our Mississauga, ON, emergency dentist will help get your oral health back on track—call (905) 567-1132.

elderly couple enjoying coffee while travelingWhat Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap used to restore weak, broken, or decayed teeth. It fits over an entire tooth, like a snug hat, to protect and strengthen it. Dental crowns are custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with your smile. They can be made from various materials, including resin, metal, porcelain, and zirconia. Each material offers unique benefits, such as durability, aesthetic appeal, and strength, making dental crowns a versatile solution for many dental issues.

Causes of Broken Porcelain Crowns in Mississauga, ON

Dental crowns break or become dislodged due to various reasons:

  • Trauma: Direct impact to the mouth or face.
  • Chewing Hard Foods: Biting down on hard objects or foods.
  • Tooth Decay: Underlying decay weakens the tooth structure.
  • Age: Wear and tear over time.
  • Faulty Crown Fit: Improper placement or fit of the crown.
  • Grinding Teeth: Bruxism (teeth grinding) can stress the crown.
  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting oral care leads to decay around the crown.

Symptoms of a Broken Dental Crown

Recognizing the signs of a broken dental crown can help prompt timely intervention:

  • Visible Damage: Cracks, fractures, or pieces missing from the crown.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
  • Pain or Discomfort: Especially when chewing or biting down.
  • Looseness: Feeling that the crown is loose or unstable. A loose crown can indicate that the crown is chipped or not properly fitted.
  • Gum Irritation: Irritation or inflammation around the crowned tooth.

Immediate Actions to Take for a Broken Crown on Tooth

When faced with a broken dental crown, you need to take these immediate steps:

  1. Retrieve the Crown: If possible, locate and keep the broken crown pieces.
  2. Rinse: Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
  3. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
  4. Avoid Chewing: Refrain from chewing on the side with the broken crown.
  5. Contact Our Mississauga Dentist: Schedule an emergency appointment with our dentist. Seeking professional dental crown repair promptly can prevent further complications.

Temporary Solutions for a Broken Dental Crown

Use Temporary Dental Cement

Temporary dental cement is useful for managing a broken dental crown and a temporary crown. Available at most drug stores, it can reattach a small broken piece or cover the exposed tooth, protecting it until you see your dentist. Designed for dental emergencies, it helps keep the underlying tooth safe from further damage.

Remember, this is a temporary fix, and you should contact our dentist in Mississauga, ON, soon for a permanent solution.

Apply Dental Wax

Dental wax is another effective temporary solution for a broken crown. It can cover the sharp edges of the broken crown, preventing irritation to your gums and mouth. This measure ensures comfort and prevents further injury while waiting for your dental appointment.

Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods

Avoiding certain foods is essential to prevent further complications from a broken dental crown. Hard foods like nuts and candies, and sticky foods like gum and caramel, can cause additional damage or dislodge the crown further. Stick to softer foods that require minimal chewing to protect the broken crown until professional care is available.

How to Protect Your Tooth

Protecting the exposed natural tooth is crucial to avoid infections and further damage. Temporary dental cement or denture adhesive can temporarily shield the tooth. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses manage discomfort and reduce swelling.

Good oral hygiene is also essential. Here are some tips to maintain it:

  1. Gently rinse your mouth with warm water.
  2. Avoid irritating substances to keep the area clean.
  3. Avoid crunchy, chewy, or tough foods that can aggravate the exposed tooth and delay healing.

Reach out to our Mississauga, ON, dental team by calling (905) 567-1132 to learn more about how we can help.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are several types of dental crowns available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types of crowns include:

  • Porcelain Crowns: Made from ceramic materials, porcelain crowns are known for their natural appearance and durability. They are an excellent choice for front teeth due to their ability to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
  • Metal Crowns: Constructed from metals such as gold, silver, or copper, metal crowns are highly durable and often used for molars and premolars. They can withstand the forces of chewing and grinding, making them a long-lasting option.
  • Zirconia Crowns: These crowns are made from zirconium dioxide and are renowned for their strength and durability. Zirconia crowns are resistant to chipping and cracking, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
  • Resin Crowns: Composed of composite resin, these crowns are often used for temporary crowns. They are less expensive than other types but may not last as long.
  • Ceramic Crowns: Similar to porcelain crowns, ceramic crowns are made from ceramic materials and offer a natural appearance and durability. They are a popular choice for those seeking an aesthetically pleasing option.

Repairing or Replacing a Broken Crown

Assessing the Damage

To assess the damage, our dentist will typically remove the broken crown and evaluate any underlying issues with the tooth structure. Keeping the broken crown to show your dentist can help understand the damage and determine the best course of action.

Repairing the Existing Crown

If the crown is intact but loose, it can often be easily reattached. In many cases, a damaged dental crown can be repaired instead of completely replaced, saving time and cost. Our dentist will clean the underlying tooth and apply dental cement to secure the crown.

The appropriate treatment for a broken dental crown depends on the severity of the damage:

  1. Crown Repair: If the damage is minimal, your dentist may be able to repair the crown.
  2. Crown Replacement: Extensive damage may require replacing the crown entirely.
  3. Temporary Measures: Our Mississauga dentist may apply a temporary crown or protective covering until a permanent solution is ready.
  4. Evaluation: Dr. Inigo will assess the underlying tooth to ensure no further complications exist. In cases where the tooth cannot support a crown, a dental implant may be considered as an alternative solution.

Getting a New Dental Crown

A severely damaged dental crown can’t be repaired and must be replaced. A new crown can be made by our dentist or a specialty laboratory, using impressions or digital scans to create a precise fit. Dental crowns typically last between 10 to 15 years, but a new crown ensures continued protection and functionality of the tooth.

Cost Considerations

The cost of a dental crown can vary depending on several factors, including the type of material used, the location of the dentist, and the complexity of the procedure. On average, the cost of a dental crown can range from $500 to $2,000. While this may seem like a significant investment, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits. With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can last for many years, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for damaged teeth.

Recovery and Care After Crown Replacement

Young woman smiling with earbuds inAfter a crown replacement, it’s essential to follow your dentist’s instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some tips to help you care for your new crown:

  • Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects: Refrain from chewing on hard objects, such as ice or hard candy, for at least 24 hours after the procedure to prevent damage to the new crown.
  • Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly to maintain the health of your crown and surrounding teeth.
  • Avoid Grinding or Clenching: Teeth grinding or clenching can damage the crown. If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, consider using a mouthguard.
  • Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups: Regular check-ups are crucial to ensure the crown is fitting properly and to catch any potential problems early.

Importance of Regular Check-Ups

Regular dental check-ups are crucial to maintaining the health and longevity of your dental crown. During these check-ups, your dentist can:

  • Inspect the Crown: Check for any signs of damage or wear to ensure the crown remains in good condition.
  • Examine Surrounding Teeth and Gums: Look for any signs of decay or disease that could affect the health of your crown.
  • Provide Professional Cleanings: Remove plaque and tartar that can accumulate around the crown and natural teeth.
  • Offer Personalized Advice: Provide tips on how to care for your crown and maintain good oral hygiene.

By following these tips and scheduling regular dental check-ups, you can help ensure your dental crown lasts for many years and continues to provide you with a healthy, beautiful smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a broken dental crown cause pain?
Can I reattach a broken dental crown myself?
What foods should I avoid with a broken dental crown?

Can a broken dental crown cause pain?

If your dental crown breaks, you may expose sensitive tooth structures, causing discomfort or pain. Contact your dentist immediately for an emergency dental crown treatment to ease your pain and prevent further damage to your natural teeth.

Can I reattach a broken dental crown myself?

It is possible to use temporary dental cement from a drug store to reattach a broken dental crown or cover the exposed tooth until you can visit your dentist. However, professional dental care is recommended for a lasting solution.

What foods should I avoid with a broken dental crown?

To protect your broken dental crown, you should avoid hard and sticky foods like nuts, candies, and chewing gum. Instead, opt for softer foods that require minimal chewing to prevent additional damage.

Contact Our Mississauga Dentist When Your Dental Crowns Falls Out or Breaks

For personalized advice or immediate assistance with a broken dental crown, don’t hesitate to reach out to our trusted dental professional. A broken dental crown is usually considered a dental emergency! To schedule your appointment, contact our dentist in Mississauga, ON, by calling (905) 567-1132.

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