Dental Crown Repair
 A damaged dental crown can be painful, unsettling, and even dangerous if left untreated. Whether your crown has chipped, loosened, or fallen off entirely, fast action is key to protecting your tooth and preventing further complications. At Parkside Dental, we offer expert dental crown repair for both emergency and routine situations to restore your comfort and oral health.
Immediate Steps to Take if Your Dental Crown is Damaged or Falls Off
When a dental crown falls off or breaks, knowing what to do can make all the difference. Acting quickly helps prevent further damage or infection.
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Retrieve the Crown - Rinse it gently and store it in a clean container for your dentist.
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Protect the Tooth - Use temporary dental cement (available at pharmacies) to protect the exposed area.
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Avoid Hard Foods - Chew on the opposite side and avoid sticky or crunchy items.
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Do Not Use Super Glue - Household adhesives can be toxic and may damage the tooth or crown.
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Seek Emergency Care if Needed - Severe pain, bleeding, or exposed nerves may require same-day treatment. |
These dental crown emergency steps are essential to preserving your tooth until you can visit Parkside Dental.
Common Problems That Require Dental Crown Repair
Crowns are durable but not indestructible. Over time or due to trauma, they may need repair or replacement. Recognizing the signs early can prevent more serious dental issues.
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Chipped Porcelain - Often caused by biting hard foods; may be smoothed or repaired with bonding.
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Loose or Wobbly Crowns - Can indicate worn cement or tooth decay beneath the crown.
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Completely Fallen Off - Sometimes caused by trauma, teeth grinding, or failed bonding.
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Cracks in the Crown or Underlying Tooth - May require replacement or root canal therapy.
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Pain or Sensitivity Under the Crown - Could signal infection or decay. |
If you're asking, “why does my crown hurt?” or noticing changes in fit, it may be time for a professional evaluation.
How Dentists Repair a Dental Crown
Understanding the crown repair process can help ease anxiety and clarify what to expect during your appointment.
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Dental Bonding - Used for minor chips or cracks using composite resin.
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Re-cementing - If the crown is intact but loose or dislodged, it can often be reattached in-office.
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Reshaping or Smoothing - For small fractures or rough edges.
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Temporary Fixes - Used to protect the tooth while a permanent solution is being made.
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Digital Scans - Used to create a replacement if repair isn’t possible. |
The method your dentist chooses depends on the crown's condition, the material (like porcelain or zirconia), and the tooth’s health.
Dental Crown Replacement – When Repair Isn’t Enough
In some cases, repairing a crown isn't possible, especially when the damage is extensive or there's decay beneath the crown.
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Severe Fractures - Crowns broken beyond repair must be replaced.
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Decay Under the Crown - May require removing the crown to treat the underlying tooth.
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Old or Worn-Out Crowns - Age and wear reduce functionality and aesthetics.
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Tooth Damage Beneath - Sometimes necessitates additional treatments like root canals.
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Updated Materials - New crowns may be more durable or aesthetically pleasing. |
Your dentist will use X-rays and scans to assess whether a dental crown replacement is the best course of action and guide you through the next steps.
Cost Considerations and Insurance Questions
The cost of dental crown repair can vary widely based on the nature of the problem and the materials involved.
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Extent of Damage - Minor chips are less expensive to fix than full replacements.
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Type of Crown - Porcelain, zirconia, and gold all differ in cost.
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Emergency vs. Standard Visit - Emergency appointments may involve additional fees.
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Insurance Coverage - Some plans cover crown repairs or replacements.
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Evaluation Needed - Accurate pricing requires a professional assessment. |
Coverage varies — please call our office to learn more about your plan.
Preventing Future Crown Damage
Most dental crown repairs can be avoided with simple prevention strategies. Protecting your crown now reduces the risk of expensive fixes later.
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Avoid Hard Foods - Stay away from ice, hard candy, and popcorn kernels.
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Don’t Use Teeth as Tools - Never open packaging or bottles with your teeth.
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Wear a Mouthguard - Ideal for patients who grind their teeth (bruxism).
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Maintain Good Hygiene - Brush, floss, and rinse regularly to avoid decay under the crown.
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Schedule Routine Checkups - Regular visits catch problems early before major repairs are needed. |
With proper care, crowns can last over a decade or more.
Schedule Your Dental Crown Repair Appointment
Don’t wait to address a damaged or missing dental crown. Early treatment prevents further decay, infection, and tooth loss. Our dental team at Parkside Dental is equipped to handle everything from emergency crown repairs to complete replacements.
Call us today or book online to get your crown repaired quickly and professionally.
FAQs
What should I do if my dental crown falls off?
Retrieve the crown, rinse it, and store it in a clean container. Use temporary dental cement to protect the exposed tooth and avoid eating on that side. Call your dentist as soon as possible.
Is a chipped crown considered a dental emergency?
It depends on the severity. Minor chips can often wait a day or two, while large fractures or sharp edges should be addressed promptly to avoid injury or infection.
Can a loose dental crown be re-cemented?
Yes, if the crown and underlying tooth are still intact, your dentist may be able to clean and re-cement the crown during a single visit.
How do I know if I need a crown repair or a replacement?
Only a dental exam and possibly X-rays can determine whether a repair or full replacement is needed. Factors include the extent of the damage, the condition of the crown, and the health of the tooth underneath.
Is dental crown repair covered by insurance?
Some insurance plans cover part or all of a crown repair or replacement. Coverage varies — please call our office to learn more about your plan. |
