Sometimes, a crown may come loose and fall out. While it isn't a dire emergency, it should be attended to by a dentist as soon as possible. An exposed tooth without a crown is fragile, and it may decay or fracture if not fixed quickly. Fortunately, you can minimize this risk by properly caring for it.
So how should you care for a tooth that has lost its crown? Here are four tips:
1. Use Clove Oil
Clove oil is a great tool to have when you lose or missing crown. Clove oil has natural properties that help reduce bacteria and pain, so it is great to have on hand. If your crown falls out, apply a little clove oil to the exposed area. Additionally, you can apply some to the actual crown to keep it clean.
2. Apply a Temporary Fix
Luckily, there are a lot of temporary ways to fix the missing crown. At most stores, you can find tooth cement or a filling kit. You can use these kits to apply the crown over the tooth. Simply clean the crown out, apply the cement or filling material to the interior space of the crown, and place it back over the tooth. Although this won't work permanently, it is a good way to protect the tooth temporarily.
If you don't have the crown, don't worry. You can still use a filling kit or tooth cement. Simply clean the tooth and apply some of the material to the tooth. Apply just enough to cover the tooth. This will seal the tooth and reduce the likelihood of pain and decay.
3. Save the Crown
If you do not feel comfortable slipping the crown back on your tooth, don't worry. You can save the crown by cleaning it with clove oil or mouthwash. Once clean, place the crown into a clean air-tight container. You can also use a plastic bag to keep the crown safe. If it is still in good condition, the dentist can usually place the crown back over the tooth.
4. Eat Carefully
As you might expect, you should be gentle to your mouth when your crown is missing. Since the tooth is fragile, you should avoid eating directly on the tooth. Additionally, stick to a soft food diet to prevent fracturing or cracking. If you are experiencing pain or sensitivity, be sure to avoid hot or cold foods and beverages. Finally, limit sugary snacks to prevent decay.
For more information, contact Northwest Dental Services and Implant Center or a similar location.
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