My Crown Fell Out, What Do I Do Next to Protect My Teeth?

By Lomita Torrance Dental Office

Losing a dental crown can be alarming, uncomfortable, and even painful—but don’t panic. If your dental crown has fallen out, acting quickly can help protect your tooth and prevent further damage. At Lomita Torrance Dental Office, we regularly help patients in Torrance and Lomita handle dental emergencies like this with fast, effective care.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do if your crown falls out and how to protect your smile until you can see a dentist.

Why Do Dental Crowns Fall Out?

Dental crowns are designed to be durable, but they can still come loose or fall out due to several reasons:

– Tooth decay under the crown
– Weak or worn dental cement
– Trauma or biting hard foods
– Teeth grinding (bruxism)
– Poor fit or aging crown

If your crown fell out, it’s important to treat it as a dental emergency—especially if the tooth underneath is exposed.

What to Do Immediately After Your Crown Falls Out
1. Locate and Inspect the Crown

Carefully find your crown and check if it’s intact. If possible, rinse it gently with warm water. Do not use soap or chemicals.

2. Keep the Crown Safe

Place the crown in a clean container. Bringing it to your dentist may allow for re-cementation instead of replacement.

3. Protect the Exposed Tooth

Your tooth may be sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure. To protect it:

– Avoid chewing on that side
– Stick to soft foods
– Keep the area clean

You can use temporary dental cement (available at pharmacies) to temporarily place the crown back, but this is only a short-term solution.

4. Call Your Dentist Immediately

Schedule an appointment as soon as possible. At Lomita Torrance Dental Office, we offer emergency dental care in Torrance and Lomita to quickly restore your crown and prevent complications.

What Happens If You Don’t Fix a Lost Crown?

Ignoring a lost dental crown can lead to:

– Tooth sensitivity or pain
– Increased risk of infection
– Tooth shifting or damage
– Need for more extensive treatment (like root canal or extraction)

Prompt treatment can save your tooth and reduce long-term costs.

How Your Dentist Will Fix It

When you visit Lomita Torrance Dental Office, your dentist will:

– Examine the crown and tooth
– Check for decay or damage
– Re-cement the crown (if possible) or recommend a new one
– Ensure proper fit and bite alignment

Our goal is to restore your tooth quickly and comfortably.

How to Prevent Your Crown From Falling Out Again

To extend the life of your dental crown:

– Maintain good oral hygiene
– Avoid sticky or hard foods
– Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
– Visit your dentist regularly for checkups
– Emergency Dental Care in Torrance & Lomita

If your crown fell out, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the better your chances of saving your tooth.

At Lomita Torrance Dental Office, we specialize in emergency dentistry, dental crowns, and restorative treatments for patients in Torrance and Lomita. Contact us today to get fast, professional care and protect your smile.