What to Do If Your Temporary Crown Breaks: A Patient Guide

Has your temporary crown cracked or fallen off? Don’t panic. At Northpoint Dental in Jacksonville, we help patients with broken crowns every day. Here’s what you need to know and do next.

Understanding Temporary Crowns

A temporary crown serves as a protective cover for your prepared tooth while your permanent crown is being crafted in a dental lab. While these temporary restorations are essential, they’re not as durable as permanent crowns and can sometimes break or come loose.

Common Causes of Broken Temporary Crowns

Several situations can lead to a damaged temporary crown:

• Biting into hard foods like nuts or ice
• Chewing sticky substances such as caramel or gum
• Grinding your teeth (especially during sleep)
• Regular wear and tear, since temporary materials aren’t meant to last long

Immediate Steps When Your Crown Breaks

First, stay calm and assess the situation. Is your temporary crown:

• Completely broken?
• Just loose?
• Still partially attached?

If it’s loose but still attached, leave it in place. It might be possible to recement it during your visit.

Contact Your Dentist Right Away

Call Northpoint Dental immediately at (904) 439-8300. Our team will guide you through the next steps and schedule a prompt appointment if needed. We understand that a broken temporary crown can be uncomfortable and concerning.

Protecting Your Tooth Until Your Visit

While waiting to see us:

1. Keep the area clean with gentle brushing
2. Rinse with warm salt water to reduce discomfort
3. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth
4. Use temporary dental cement from your drugstore if needed
5. Take over-the-counter pain relievers if you experience sensitivity

Preventing Future Issues

To protect your temporary crown:

Use Gentle Oral Care:

• Brush softly with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Floss carefully, sliding the floss out rather than lifting up
• Avoid electric toothbrushes

Watch Your Diet:

• Skip hard, crunchy foods
• Avoid sticky foods and candies
• Chew on the opposite side of your mouth

How We’ll Help at Northpoint Dental

When you visit our Jacksonville office, we will:

1. Examine the affected tooth
2. Clean the area thoroughly
3. Either repair or replace your temporary crown
4. Ensure your comfort throughout the procedure
5. Check the fit and bite of your restoration

Professional Care When You Need It

At Northpoint Dental, we understand that dental issues don’t always happen during business hours. That’s why we prioritize emergency appointments for broken temporary crowns. Our experienced team uses modern equipment and techniques to resolve your crown issues quickly and comfortably.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Don’t let a broken temporary crown cause you unnecessary stress or discomfort. Contact Northpoint Dental at (904) 439-8300 for prompt, professional care. Our Jacksonville team is ready to protect your smile and ensure your comfort until your permanent crown is ready.

Remember: Quick action helps prevent complications and ensures the success of your final restoration. Trust Northpoint Dental to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.