Dental crowns are highly effective restorative tools that dentists employ for patients with damaged or vulnerable teeth. The ceramic cap covers a tooth and shields it from external stimuli that could further harm the tooth.
Though crowns are durable, high amounts of pressure could dislodge or break a dental crown, exposing the affected tooth. Dr. Brenda Paulen, a dentist practicing in Sandy Springs, GA, outlines actions you should take if you sustain damage to your dental crowns.
Call Your Dentist Promptly
When your dentist secures a dental crown to your tooth, they shave away part of the enamel to make room for the cap. If the crown no longer covers the tooth, the underlying dentin could be exposed, potentially causing painful tooth sensitivity when stimulated.
Tooth pain of any kind is considered a dental emergency and should be reported to your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can also give you advice on how to care for your unique scenario before you come to the office for an emergency appointment.
Schedule an Emergency Dentist Appointment
You should bring your broken or dislodged dental crown to your dentist’s office when you attend your emergency appointment. During this visit, a dental professional will first perform an exam to evaluate the extent of damage to the crown, the tooth, and other parts of your mouth.
If the crown is intact, your dentist will replace the dental crown over your tooth and secure it into place. They can provide you with a temporary crown if you need a new permanent crown to be constructed.
Prevent Future Dental Crown Damage
Dental crowns are designed to withstand the everyday wear and tear that teeth experience. But abnormal pressure could break the seal of the crown and create further dental damage. For this reason, you should not bite down on hard items, including fingernails or ice.
You should also let your dentist know if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth. They may recommend that you wear a mouthguard at night to prevent this behavior from harming your smile as you sleep.
Dental Crowns and Other Restorative Dentistry in Sandy Springs, GA
Proud Smiles offers dental crowns and other restorative dental solutions to patients in Sandy Springs, GA. Dr. Paulen also specializes in implant, cosmetic, and general dentistry, including emergency dental care. To schedule an appointment with our practice, contact our team online or reach our office by phone at 404.418.7734.