A crown is a popular restoration method that involves placing a special cap on the visible part of the tooth. Crown materials can be different, but its size and shape are always adjusted to the individual anatomy of the patient. In general, the crown completely restores the aesthetics of the smile and ensures the normal functioning of the teeth.
Falling out and breakage of the crown is not uncommon. This can happen for a number of reasons:
- Structural expiration. Nothing lasts forever, and no matter what quality materials are used in the manufacture of a crown, sooner or later its working life will end;
- Improper oral hygiene. If you care for your teeth and gums illiterately, or do it too rarely, the crown may simply fall out;
- Excessive loads. Crowns are made of durable and hard materials that can easily cope with ordinary chewing loads. But if you often gnaw nuts or sweets with your teeth, the cap may break;
- The crown has nothing to hold on to. If the tooth under the crown somehow breaks, then it will have nothing to hold on to, and it will fall out.
Also, errors of orthopedists and technicians cannot be ruled out. The human factor may well play a cruel joke with you.
What to do when a crown falls out
In general, it is better not to allow such situations, as they are very unpleasant. It is in your power to significantly extend the life of the structure. It is enough to follow a few simple rules:
- Brush your teeth twice a day and use dental floss;
- Give up or minimize bad habits. The crown can be damaged by smoking, caffeine abuse, nail biting, etc.;
- Don’t put too much pressure on your teeth. Open bottles with bottle openers, prick nuts with a knife or hammer;
- Visit your dentist regularly. At least once every six months. The doctor will be able to detect any dental problems in time and prevent their aggravation.
If trouble has already happened, do not panic. Your actions after the crown falls out should include two steps:
- Minimize stress on the tooth. Try to save the stump of the tooth or the rest of the broken crown;
- Make an appointment with the dentist. The sooner you visit a doctor, the better. Especially if the crown fell out with a pin.
Keep an eye on the health of your teeth, do not be afraid to go to the dentist, and your smile will always be beautiful and healthy.