What Happens if a Crown Falls Out? Temporary Fixes & Next Steps

Dental crowns are built to be durable, but sometimes they can fall out — whether due to wear and tear, weakened dental cement, tooth decay, or even biting into something hard.
If your dental crown falls out, don’t panic. At Edmonton Smiles, we help patients handle dental emergencies quickly and efficiently.

In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what to do if your crown falls out, temporary fixes you can use, and how to get it properly repaired or replaced.

Why Do Dental Crowns Fall Out?

Dental crowns are designed to be strong and long-lasting, often serving patients well for many years. However, they aren’t immune to wear and tear or complications. When a crown comes loose or falls off, it can be alarming — but it’s not uncommon. Several factors, ranging from daily habits to underlying oral health issues, can compromise a crown’s stability. Understanding the most common causes can help you take simple steps to protect your crown and support your overall oral health.

• Old Age: Over time, the adhesive material securing the crown can weaken. 
• Tooth Decay: Decay underneath the crown can destabilize its foundation. 
• Bite Trauma: Biting down on hard foods like nuts, candy, or ice can dislodge a crown. 
• Tooth Grinding (Bruxism): Continuous grinding can loosen crowns. 
• Poor Fit or Bonding Issues: In some cases, the original fit or bonding material may fail prematurely. 

No matter the cause, acting quickly is essential. A loose or missing crown leaves your tooth exposed to bacteria, sensitivity, and further damage. Prompt professional care can often restore the crown — or, when needed, ensure a proper replacement is done before complications arise.

What to Do Immediately If Your Crown Falls Out

If your crown falls out, it’s important to act quickly to protect both your tooth and the crown. While this can be a stressful situation, staying calm and following a few simple steps can help prevent further damage and make the process of repair or replacement smoother. Below, we outline the essential actions you should take immediately after a crown falls out and before you get to Edmonton Smiles for professional care.

1. Retrieve the Crown

Carefully locate and save the crown. Store it in a clean container or plastic bag. If it’s intact, it might be possible for your dentist to reattach it.

2. Inspect the Tooth and Crown

Look at the tooth and the inside of the crown. If the crown looks undamaged and the tooth is not fractured, a repair may be simple.

3. Rinse Your Mouth

Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to keep the area clean and remove any debris.

4. Protect the Tooth

If the exposed tooth is sensitive, you can apply a tiny amount of dental cement (available over-the-counter at pharmacies) inside the crown and temporarily place it back over the tooth.

5. Avoid Chewing on That Side

Until you get professional care, avoid chewing on the side where the crown fell out. This prevents further damage or discomfort.

6. Call Edmonton Smiles Immediately

Even if you manage a temporary fix, professional evaluation is crucial. A loose crown, underlying decay, or infection must be addressed quickly to prevent permanent damage.

Temporary Fixes for a Lost Crown

If you’re unable to visit the dentist right away, it’s important to take steps to protect both your tooth and the crown. While these solutions are not meant to be permanent, they can help reduce discomfort and minimize further damage until you can get professional dental care:

• Temporary Dental Cement: Many pharmacies sell temporary dental repair kits. These can help hold the crown in place until you see your dentist. 
• Dental Wax or Sugar-Free Gum: If the crown can’t be temporarily reattached, covering the exposed tooth with dental wax or sugar-free gum can protect it from sensitivity. 
• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain medication can help ease discomfort if the exposed tooth is sensitive. 

Important:

• Never use household glue or any non-dental adhesive on your crown. These are not safe for oral use. 
• Do not force the crown onto the tooth if it doesn’t fit easily — this could cause more damage. 

Next Steps: Professional Care at Edmonton Smiles

Dental crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but even the strongest restorations can sometimes fall out. Whether it’s due to normal wear and tear, weakened cement, tooth decay, or an unexpected mishap like biting into something hard, losing a crown can be concerning. While it may seem like a major dental emergency, it’s important to stay calm and take the right steps to protect your tooth and crown.

If your crown falls out, don’t panic. At Edmonton Smiles, we specialize in helping patients handle dental emergencies quickly and efficiently. Our team is here to guide you through the process of managing a lost crown, from temporary fixes to getting the proper repair or replacement.

When you visit Edmonton Smiles after a crown falls out, here’s what typically happens:

1. Dental Examination

We’ll examine the exposed tooth and the crown to assess the cause of failure and check for damage, decay, or infection.

2. Decision: Recement or Replace

• If the crown is still in good condition and the underlying tooth is healthy, we may simply clean the area and recement the crown. 
• If the crown or tooth is damaged or if there’s significant decay, we may recommend a new crown to protect your tooth long-term. 

3. Protective Measures

In some cases, if the tooth structure has weakened, a buildup (filling material) or a core reinforcement may be necessary before placing the crown again.

At Edmonton Smiles, we use state-of-the-art materials and technology to ensure any crown replacement fits perfectly, looks natural, and restores full function.

How to Prevent a Crown from Falling Out Again

While some accidents are simply unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of losing a crown in the future. By following these simple preventive measures, you can help ensure the longevity of your crowns and protect your smile for years to come:

• Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day, floss carefully around the crown, and use fluoride products to protect the underlying tooth. 
• Avoiding Hard Foods: Cut down on chewing hard foods like ice, hard candy, and nuts. 
• Wearing a Nightguard: If you grind your teeth, a custom nightguard can protect your crowns and natural teeth. 
• Keeping Up with Dental Visits: Regular checkups help catch small issues with crowns before they become emergencies. 

Final Thoughts: Don’t Delay If Your Crown Falls Out

If your dental crown falls out, time is crucial. Prompt action and professional care can often save the crown — or, if needed, quickly restore your smile with a new, secure crown.

At Edmonton Smiles, we understand how stressful dental emergencies can be. Our team is ready to help you quickly and comfortably, ensuring your tooth stays protected and your smile stays strong.

Call us today or schedule an emergency dental appointment through our website: Edmonton Smiles Emergency Appointments