A broken temporary crown on the weekend can be incredibly frustrating and concerning. This guide will help you navigate this dental emergency, offering advice on what to do, how to manage the situation, and what to expect when you see your dentist.
What to Do If Your Temporary Crown Breaks Off?
First, stay calm. While inconvenient, a broken temporary crown isn't a life-threatening emergency. The most crucial step is to retrieve any remaining pieces of the crown. Place these fragments in a safe, clean container (like a zip-top bag) for your dentist to examine. This can help them understand what happened and potentially reuse parts of it.
Next, assess the situation. Is the broken crown causing you significant pain? Is the tooth exposed and sensitive to air, temperature changes, or touch? If you're experiencing severe pain or discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can provide temporary relief. However, this is just a temporary measure; you still need to see a dentist as soon as possible.
Finally, protect the affected tooth. Avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could further irritate the exposed area. Try to gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to help keep the area clean and prevent infection.
What Should I Do Until I See My Dentist?
The best course of action is to contact your dentist's office immediately even if it's the weekend. Most dental practices have emergency contact information available on their websites or answering machines. They might be able to offer advice over the phone or suggest an emergency appointment at a nearby practice.
How long can I go without a temporary crown?
This depends entirely on the individual case and the underlying condition of the tooth. While a temporary crown provides protection, the tooth itself remains vulnerable without it. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of infection, sensitivity, and further damage. Getting it fixed as soon as possible is crucial.
Will my permanent crown be affected?
It's unlikely that a broken temporary crown will directly damage the permanent crown being prepared. However, the longer the tooth is exposed, the greater the risk of complications that could indirectly impact the final restoration.
Can I re-cement the temporary crown myself?
This is generally not recommended. While some temporary crown cement is available over the counter, attempting to re-attach the crown yourself could cause further damage or introduce infection. It's best to leave this to your dentist.
What are the risks of leaving a broken temporary crown?
The main risks associated with a broken temporary crown include:
- Increased sensitivity: The exposed tooth becomes more sensitive to temperature changes, touch, and air.
- Infection: Bacteria can easily enter the exposed area leading to infection, gum inflammation, and potential abscess formation.
- Tooth fracture: The underlying tooth might be more prone to fracture if left unprotected.
- Delay in permanent crown placement: Repairing damage from the broken temporary crown might delay the fitting of the permanent restoration.
What to Expect at the Dentist's Office
When you see your dentist, they will examine the affected tooth, evaluate the extent of the damage, and determine the best course of action. This might involve:
- Replacing the temporary crown: If the damage is minimal, they might simply replace the temporary crown.
- Making a new temporary crown: If the original crown is severely damaged, they might need to create a new temporary crown.
- Addressing any underlying issues: They may need to treat any infection or address any underlying dental problems that contributed to the crown breaking.
Remember, prompt attention to a broken temporary crown is key to preventing more serious issues. Don't delay seeking professional dental care.
Conclusion
A broken temporary crown is an inconvenient but manageable situation. By following these guidelines and promptly seeking professional dental attention, you can minimize potential problems and ensure the successful completion of your dental treatment. Remember to always contact your dentist or an emergency dental service for personalized advice and treatment.
