A broken dental crown is a common issue that can affect anyone with a dental restoration. Crowns are design to last for years, but they aren’t indestructible. Over time, normal wear and tear, accidents, or underlying dental conditions can weaken them. If a crown cracks, chips, or falls off, it can lead to discomfort, sensitivity, and potential damage to the underlying tooth.

Ignoring a broken tooth crown can result in serious dental issues, such as infection, tooth decay, or pain while eating. While some crowns can be repair, others may require replacement. Knowing the next steps can help protect your smile and prevent further complications.

Why Do Dental Crowns Break?

A broken dental crown can result from several factors. Understanding these causes can help you better care for your restoration and prevent future damage.

• Wear and Tear: Crowns are durable, but they can get damage over time. Years of chewing and biting put stress on them, gradually weakening the material.
• Accidents and Injuries: A sudden blow to the face, a fall, or biting down on something hard can cause a crown to crack or dislodge.
• Poor Fit: If a crown is not place correctly or does not fit well, it may be more vulnerable to breaking.
• Tooth Decay: If the natural tooth underneath the crown develops decay, the structure weakens, making the crown more likely to break or fall off.
• Teeth Grinding: Clenching or grinding your teeth, especially at night, can put excessive pressure on a crown, leading to cracks or fractures.
• Eating Hard Foods: Biting into hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy can damage a crown.

What Should You Do If Your Crown Breaks?

If you have a broken dental crown, follow these steps to protect your tooth and prevent further damage:

1. Check the Damage: Look in the mirror to see if the crown is cracked, chipped, or completely detached.
2. Save the Crown: If the crown has fallen off, keep it in a clean container and bring it to your dentist.
3. Call Your Dentist: Schedule an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible.
4. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Eating on the affected side can cause more damage or discomfort.
5. Keep the Area Clean: Rinse with warm salt water to reduce infection risk and gently brush around the area.
6. Use Dental Wax or Temporary Cement: Dental wax can help protect your tongue and cheeks from irritation if the crown has a rough edge. Temporary dental cement (available at drugstores) can hold the crown in place until you see your dentist.

Can a Broken Dental Crown Be Repaired?

Some broken dental crowns can be repair, depending on the severity of the damage and the material of the crown. Options include:

• Bonding: If the crown has a minor chip or crack, a dentist may use a composite resin to fix the damage.
• Polishing: Small imperfections can sometimes be smooth out without replacing the crown.
• Reattaching the Crown: If the crown is intact and fits well, your dentist may clean it and cement it onto the tooth.

When Does a Crown Need to Be Replaced?

Sometimes, a repair may not be enough, and a replacement is necessary. Your dentist will recommend a new crown if:

• The crown is severely crack or split in half.
• There is decay under the crown that has weakened the natural tooth.
• The crown has come loose and no longer fits properly.
• The material of the crown has worn down significantly.
• You experience ongoing pain or sensitivity around the crowned tooth.

Temporary Fixes for a Broken Crown

If you cannot visit a dental office immediately, there are temporary measures you can take:

• Use Temporary Dental Cement: Available at most drugstores, this can secure a loose crown until you can see your dentist.
• Apply Dental Wax: If the crown has sharp edges, dental wax can help prevent irritation.
• Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side: This will help prevent further damage or discomfort.
• Take Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications can help with sensitivity or pain.

How to Prevent Crown Damage

Caring for your crowns can help them last longer and prevent unexpected breaks. Here are some tips:

• Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, hard candies, or pen caps.
• Wear a nightguard to protect your crowns if you grind your teeth at night.
• Visit the dentist regularly to check the condition of your crowns and underlying teeth.
• Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily to prevent decay beneath the crown.
• Be cautious when eating sticky foods that may pull the crown off.

What Happens During a Dental Appointment for a Broken Crown?

When you visit your dentist for a broken tooth crown, they will do the following:

1. Examine the damage and assess whether the crown can be repair or needs replacement.
2. Take X-rays to check the health of the tooth underneath.
3. If the crown can be reattached, they will clean it and secure it back onto the tooth.
4. If a new crown is need, they will take impressions and fit a temporary crown while the permanent one is made.
5. Provide instructions on caring for your new or repaired crown to prevent future issues.

Get Help for a Broken Dental Crown

A broken dental crown should not be ignore. Leaving it untreated can lead to further complications, such as decay, pain, or infection. Whether your crown is cracked, chipped, or has fallen off completely, timely care is essential to restore your smile and protect your natural teeth.

At Norwood Dental, we deliver fast repair or replace broken crowns, ensuring long-term durability and comfort. Don’t let the problem worsen—schedule an appointment today or call (952)467-3518 to let our Norwood dentist help you regain a healthy, confident smile.

We serve Bloomington, Wichita, Sterling, and nearby areas.