Your dentist may provide you with a dental crown to protect a damaged tooth. This ceramic cap covers a vulnerable tooth, shielding it from exterior threats.
These fixtures are durable, but accidents can occur that may cause a crown to dislodge or break. Dr. Emily Ann Reece, a dentist practicing in Cary, NC, outlines steps you should take if you sustain damage to your dental crown.
Contact Your Dentist As Soon As Possible
When your dentist fits you with a dental crown, they must shave away part of the enamel of your tooth to make room for the ceramic cap. If the crown becomes dislodged or breaks, the underlying dentin may be exposed to external stimulation.
This could mean that you feel painful sensitivity in your tooth. Though you may find the pain to be tolerable, your tooth is vulnerable without a crown to protect it. You should call your dentist as soon as you can to schedule a dentist appointment to restore the crown.
Attend Emergency Dentist Appointment
Your dentist will likely schedule an emergency dentist appointment promptly to repair the broken dental crown. They will begin the appointment by examining both the crown and your smile for signs of additional damage.
If the crown is still intact, your dentist can replace the crown over the affected tooth and secure it into place. Your dental professional can provide you with a temporary crown if a new permanent crown must be constructed.
Protect Dental Crowns from Future Damage
Once your crown is back over your tooth, you will want to take precautions to ensure this dental emergency does not occur again. Crowns are durable, but abnormally high amounts of pressure could cause them to break.
For this reason, you should avoid biting down on hard items, like the end of a pen or ice. You should also let your dentist know if you grind or clench your teeth. They may recommend that you wear a mouthguard overnight to protect your crown from enduring this behavior as you sleep.
Dental Crown Repair and More in Cary, NC
Reedy Creek Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers dental crown procedures and other restorative dental treatments to patients in Cary, NC. Dr. Reece also specializes in cosmetic and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment or consultation with our practice, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 919.646.6294.