A dental crown serves a number of important purposes. It can protect a damaged or decayed tooth, thus saving it from extraction. It can restore the tooth’s function and even repair its appearance. Clearly, dental crowns are an important part of modern dentistry. If one of your crowns becomes loose, you could face some serious consequences. In this post, we will discuss why a crown may become loose and what you can do to solve the problem.
Why Dental Crowns Loosen
Dentists carefully design crowns to fit snugly on teeth. They even use a special type of cement to bond the crowns in place. However, despite the secure attachment between the tooth and its crown, various circumstances can cause the crown to loosen.
- Too many sticky foods. If you occasionally eat some toffee, taffy, or other sticky foods, your dental crown should endure just fine. However, if you habitually snack on such treats, they will tug at your crown so much that they will begin to weaken the cement’s ability to hold your crown in place.
- Decay. Dental crowns are made out of materials that make them invulnerable to decay. However, plaque can accumulate along your gums at the base of the crown and damage the underlying tooth. As decay eats away at the tooth’s structure, the tooth may lose its shape and no longer fit well beneath the crown.
- Time. Dental cement can last for many years. However, it will eventually lose its adhesiveness.
- Damage to the crown. If the crown is cracked, chipped, or bent, it is more likely to become loose.
What to Do About Your Loose Crown
If you notice that your dental crown does not fit as securely as it should, call your dentist’s office. Many dentists consider a loose or lost crown to be a dental emergency, so you may be able to get a same-day appointment.
Prior to your dental appointment, there are a few steps you can take to protect your tooth:
- Avoid chewing with the tooth that has the loose crown. If the tooth is extra sensitive or causing you pain, do not consume acidic foods or anything that is very hot or very cold.
- If the crown comes off altogether, try to replace it on your tooth. A dab or toothpaste or a mild dental adhesive may help to keep it in place. If the crown does not want to fit on your tooth, do not try to force it.
During your appointment, your dentist might be able to permanently reattach the crown. However, it is also possible that they will have to provide you with an entirely new restoration.
Are you dealing with a loose crown? Contact your dentist right away so you can prevent further damage to your tooth and regain full dental function as soon as possible.
About Us
Drs. Scott Beckerman and Gerry Schneider are the two general dentists at Willow Run Dental Association. Together, they work to provide high-quality preventive, cosmetic, and restorative care to families in Auburn. If you ever experience a loose crown or other urgent oral health situation, contact us right away at 207-406-9532. Our team is ready to help!