Last Update: November 2025
It’s never a pleasant surprise when a dental crown comes loose or falls off. Whether it happens while eating, brushing, or even in your sleep, the sudden feeling of a missing crown can cause alarm. The good news is that this is a common dental situation, and with the right steps, it can be managed safely until you see your dentist.
At Bedford Dental Group in Beverly Hills, we’ve treated thousands of patients for crown-related emergencies. In most cases, acting quickly and calmly can prevent further damage and make the repair process simple and stress-free.
First, Don’t Panic: Here’s What to Do Right Away
If your dental crown has fallen off, the first step is to stay calm. Crowns can sometimes loosen over time due to wear, old cement, or underlying decay. Here’s what you should do immediately:
Find and save the crown.
Inspect the crown and tooth.
Store the crown safely.
Avoid chewing on that side.
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
Carefully locate the crown and rinse it gently with warm water. Avoid using soaps or harsh cleaners, and don’t scrub. It’s important to preserve its shape in case it can be reattached.
If the tooth underneath looks intact and you don’t see cracks or large chips, your dentist may be able to re-cement the same crown. If part of the tooth appears broken, avoid touching or cleaning it aggressively.
Place it in a small, clean container or resealable plastic bag. Bring it with you to your appointment.
Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side to prevent further damage or pain.
This helps keep the exposed tooth clean and reduces the risk of irritation or infection.
These simple steps can go a long way in protecting your tooth until you reach your dentist.
Protecting the Exposed Tooth at Home
When a crown comes off, the tooth underneath is often sensitive because it’s no longer shielded by the restoration. Here’s how to protect it temporarily:
- Use temporary dental cement
Most pharmacies sell over-the-counter dental cement or denture adhesive. After rinsing the crown and tooth, apply a small amount of cement inside the crown and gently place it back on the tooth. Bite down softly to test the fit. Important: This is only a short-term fix. Your dentist will need to professionally clean and re-cement it.
- If you can’t find dental cement, use dental wax
Soft dental wax or orthodontic wax can be molded to cover the exposed tooth surface, reducing sensitivity and protecting it from debris.
- Avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods
Foods like caramel, nuts, and crunchy snacks can worsen damage or dislodge the crown again.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve any discomfort. Always follow dosage directions and check for potential medication conflicts.
Remember, these measures are temporary. They’re designed to keep you comfortable but should not replace professional dental care.
When to Call Your Dentist (and Why You Shouldn’t Wait)
Even if the crown isn’t causing pain, it’s important to call your dentist as soon as possible. Leaving an exposed tooth unprotected for too long can lead to new decay or even infection.
When you visit Bedford Dental Group, we’ll evaluate the crown, inspect the remaining tooth structure, and determine the best solution for you - whether that’s reattaching the existing crown or fabricating a new one.
If you’re traveling or away from Beverly Hills, contact your regular dentist first and they can often recommend a trusted local provider for emergency treatment.
Can a Dentist Reattach a Crown That Fell Off?
In many cases, yes. If the crown itself is undamaged and the underlying tooth is still sound, your dentist can often clean the surfaces and re-cement it during a single appointment.
However, if the crown has cracked or the tooth underneath has decayed or fractured, a new crown may be necessary. Advances in digital dentistry now allow some offices, like Bedford Dental Group, to design and place a new custom crown in as little as one visit.
What If the Tooth Broke Along with the Crown?
If a portion of your natural tooth broke off when the crown fell, you’ll need prompt evaluation. The treatment approach depends on how severe the break is:
Minor break: The dentist may rebuild the lost structure with composite material and reattach the crown.
Moderate break: A new crown or post-and-core restoration may be needed to strengthen the tooth.
Severe break: If the damage extends below the gumline or compromises the root, an extraction and dental implant may be the best option.
Even if the damage looks alarming, rest assured that modern restorative dentistry offers predictable, comfortable solutions for nearly every situation.
Temporary Crowns vs. Permanent Crowns
Understanding the difference between temporary and permanent crowns can help you prevent similar issues in the future.
Temporary crowns are made from acrylic or resin and are meant to protect your tooth while your permanent crown is being fabricated. They’re not as durable and can come loose more easily, so it’s important to be gentle while eating and brushing.
Permanent crowns are made from materials like porcelain, zirconia, or metal alloys. They can last 10–15 years or more with proper care. Still, they can loosen over time due to normal wear or cement breakdown.
If your crown has fallen off more than once, it could indicate that the underlying tooth or cement needs attention rather than the crown itself.
Preventing Future Crown Problems
Crowns are designed to be long-lasting, but daily habits and oral health can affect their lifespan. Follow these tips to minimize future issues:
Maintain regular dental checkups. Professional cleanings and exams help detect early signs of wear or decay around the crown.
Avoid chewing hard objects. Ice, pens, and hard candy are common culprits that can crack or loosen crowns.
Address teeth grinding. If you clench or grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a custom nightguard to protect your restorations.
Brush and floss daily. Good oral hygiene prevents decay at the crown’s edges, one of the most common causes of failure.
A little preventive care goes a long way in extending the life of your crown and your overall smile health.
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
A fallen crown doesn’t always require an emergency visit, but there are situations where you shouldn’t wait:
You experience sharp pain, swelling, or bleeding
The tooth underneath feels jagged or is cutting your tongue or cheek
You notice a foul taste or visible decay
The crown or tooth broke into multiple pieces
If any of these apply, contact your dentist right away. At Bedford Dental Group, we offer same-day emergency appointments for situations just like this.
Why Patients in Beverly Hills Trust Bedford Dental Group
For more than 30 years, Bedford Dental Group has been at the forefront of cosmetic and restorative dentistry in Beverly Hills. Our team combines precision, advanced technology, and personalized care to deliver exceptional results—even during dental emergencies.
Whether your crown has loosened, fallen off, or broken completely, our priority is to restore your comfort and your confidence as quickly as possible.
Need Help with a Loose or Lost Crown?
If your dental crown has come off, don’t wait for discomfort to set in. The sooner you see a professional, the easier it is to restore your tooth and protect your smile.
Contact Bedford Dental Group today to schedule a same-day appointment with one of our experienced dentists in Beverly Hills. We’ll help you secure your crown, relieve your discomfort, and get you smiling again with confidence.Related Reading
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
What to Do If You Chip a Tooth
Dental Implants vs. Crowns: Which Is Right for You?
0 comments