Can I Brush My Teeth if My Crown Fell Off?

You’re eating or brushing your teeth when suddenly, your dental crown comes off. It can be quite alarming, leaving you wondering what steps to take next. Dental crowns are critical in restoring the functionality and aesthetics of damaged teeth, and losing one can disrupt your oral health routine. But should you brush your teeth if your crown falls off? How should you clean the exposed area? What actions should you avoid, and how long can you go without a crown?

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into these questions, offering expert advice on managing a fallen dental crown, particularly if you’re seeking Dental Crowns in Bellevue. Whether it’s about maintaining hygiene or deciding when to visit the dentist, this blog covers everything you need to know.

Can You Brush Your Teeth if a Crown Falls Off?

Understanding Dental Crowns

Dental crowns, often referred to as caps, are custom-made coverings designed to encase a tooth entirely. They are used to restore a tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance after significant damage. Crowns can be made from various materials including porcelain, zirconia, metal alloys, and composite resin. According to the American Dental Association, over 2.3 million crowns are placed annually in the United States .

Initial Response to a Fallen Crown

If your crown falls off, the first step is to remain calm. Retrieve the crown and inspect it and your tooth for any visible damage. Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further damage to the exposed tooth or surrounding areas.

Brushing Your Teeth

You might wonder if brushing your teeth with an exposed area is safe. The answer is yes, but with caution. Here are some guidelines to follow:

1. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush will minimize irritation to the exposed tooth and surrounding gums.
2. Gentle Brushing: Brush gently around the exposed tooth to avoid causing pain or further damage. Focus on cleaning the surrounding teeth without applying pressure on the exposed area.
3. Avoid Abrasive Toothpaste: Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent additional wear on the exposed tooth.

Brushing is crucial to maintain oral hygiene and prevent plaque buildup, even with a missing crown. However, overzealous brushing can lead to irritation or damage, so moderation is key.

What Not to Do if a Crown Falls Off?

Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks

When a crown falls off, the underlying tooth is more vulnerable to damage and decay. Avoid the following:

• Hard Foods: Such as nuts, hard candies, and crunchy vegetables, as they can cause further damage to the exposed tooth.
• Sticky Foods: Like caramel, chewing gum, and toffees, which can pull at the exposed tooth or increase the risk of damage.
• Sugary Foods and Beverages: These can promote decay, especially since the exposed tooth lacks the protection of the crown.

Don’t Attempt DIY Fixes

It’s tempting to use over-the-counter dental repair kits to reattach your crown, but these are not recommended. Professional intervention ensures proper reattachment and avoids potential complications. According to the American Dental Association, improperly reattached crowns can lead to misalignment and further dental issues .

Avoid Using Your Tongue or Fingers

Refrain from frequently touching the exposed area with your tongue or fingers. This can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Additionally, probing the area can irritate the exposed tooth or gums.

Do Not Delay Professional Help

Waiting too long to address a fallen crown can lead to complications, including tooth decay, increased sensitivity, and potential tooth loss. According to the Cleveland Clinic, visiting your dentist within 24–48 hours of losing a crown is ideal .

How to Clean a Tooth When the Crown Falls Off?

Rinsing and Cleaning

If your crown falls off, keeping the area clean is crucial to prevent infection or decay:

1. Rinse with Warm Salt Water: This helps to cleanse the area and reduce bacteria. Mix one teaspoon of salt with eight ounces of warm water and rinse your mouth gently.
2. Use a Mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help to minimize the risk of infection. Choose one that is alcohol-free to avoid irritation.
3. Gentle Brushing: As mentioned earlier, brush gently around the exposed tooth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.

Temporary Solutions

While waiting for your dental appointment, you can use dental wax or temporary dental cement to cover the exposed tooth. These can be found in most pharmacies and provide short-term protection. However, this is a temporary measure and should not replace professional dental care.

Caring for the Crown

If your crown is intact and you plan to have it reattached, clean it thoroughly with water. Store it in a clean container to protect it from damage or contamination. Bring the crown to your dental appointment for potential reattachment.

How Long Can I Go Without My Crown?

Immediate Risks

Going without a crown for an extended period can expose the underlying tooth to various risks. The American Association of Endodontists highlights that exposed teeth are susceptible to:

• Tooth Decay: Without the protective covering of a crown, the tooth is more vulnerable to decay.
• Sensitivity: The exposed tooth may be sensitive to temperature changes and pressure.
• Structural Damage: The underlying tooth can become weak and more prone to fractures .

Timing for Dental Visit

Ideally, you should visit your dentist within a few days of losing a crown. However, if you experience significant pain, sensitivity, or swelling, seek immediate dental care. Prolonging treatment can lead to more severe dental issues, including the need for root canal treatment or extraction.

Temporary Measures

If immediate dental care is not possible, continue practicing good oral hygiene and use temporary solutions like dental wax. Avoid hard, sticky, or sugary foods and monitor the exposed tooth for any signs of deterioration.

Long-Term Consequences

Delaying the replacement or reattachment of a crown can lead to long-term dental issues. According to research published in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, teeth that remain exposed without crowns for extended periods are more likely to require extensive dental procedures, including root canals or extractions, due to increased decay and structural damage .

Conclusion

A fallen dental crown is an inconvenience, but understanding how to respond can mitigate further damage and discomfort. Brushing your teeth carefully, avoiding certain foods, and seeking prompt dental care are crucial steps in managing a lost crown. Remember, while temporary measures can provide short-term relief, they are not substitutes for professional dental treatment. For those in Dental Crowns in Bellevue, consulting your dentist at the earliest opportunity ensures the best outcome for your oral health.