Broken Dental Crown Emergencies in Scottsdale, AZ
Emergency Dental Care in Scottsdale When You Need It
A broken dental crown can be a painful and stressful experience, but you’re not alone. Whether your crown has cracked, chipped, or fallen off completely, immediate action is critical to protect your oral health and avoid further complications.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t panic! Our Scottsdale dentist near you is here to help. Contact our dental office at (480) 935-2424 to get an appointment as soon as possible.
What Is a Dental Crown and Why Do They Break?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these. While dental crowns are durable, they’re not indestructible.
Common Causes of a Broken Dental Crown
Some of the most common causes of broken crowns include:
- Trauma or Injury: Biting down on hard foods (e.g., nuts, ice, or candy) or experiencing a blow to the mouth can crack or dislodge a crown.
- Tooth Decay: Decay beneath the crown can weaken the underlying tooth, causing the crown to loosen or break.
- Poor Fit: If the crown wasn’t properly fitted or cemented, it may become unstable over time.
- Wear and Tear: Over the years of use, crowns can wear down, especially if you grind your teeth (bruxism).
- Material Failure: Some materials, like porcelain, are prone to chipping under excessive pressure.
Symptoms of a Broken Crown
If your crown is damaged, you may experience:
- Sharp or throbbing pain in the affected tooth
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Visible cracks, chips, or missing pieces of the crown
- A loose or wobbly crown
- Gum irritation or swelling around the crowned tooth
To schedule an emergency appointment for a broken crown, contact our dentist near you today at (480) 935-2424.
What to Do If Your Dental Crown Breaks
Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
Examine your mouth to determine the extent of the damage. If the crown is loose but still attached, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. If it’s fallen off, retrieve it if possible.
Protect the Tooth
A broken crown exposes the underlying tooth, which may be sensitive or vulnerable to further damage. To protect it:
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to clean the area.
- Apply dental cement, dental wax, or even sugar-free chewing gum (as a temporary fix) to cover the exposed tooth.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything too hot, cold, or acidic.
Save the Crown
If the crown has come off, store it in a clean, dry container or a plastic bag. Bring it to our dentist, Dr. Smith, as it may be reusable.
Manage Pain
If you’re experiencing discomfort:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen (follow dosage instructions).
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
Contact Our Dentist Near You Immediately
Time is critical in a dental emergency. Contact Pristine Dental at (480) 935-2424 to schedule an urgent appointment. Delaying treatment can lead to infection, further tooth damage, or the need for more extensive procedures.
Treatment Options for a Broken Dental Crown
Re-cementing the Crown
If the crown is intact and the underlying tooth is undamaged, our Scottsdale dentist may be able to clean and re-cement the crown. This is a quick and cost-effective solution.
Repairing the Crown
For minor chips or cracks, Dr. Smith may repair the crown using composite resin or other dental materials to restore its shape and function.
Replacing the Crown
If the crown is severely damaged or no longer fits properly, a new crown will likely be necessary. Our dentist will create a new custom crown for you.
Treating Underlying Issues
If decay or damage to the underlying tooth caused the crown to break, our dentist may recommend:
- Filling or Root Canal: To address decay or infection in the tooth.
- Post and Core Build-Up: To strengthen a severely damaged tooth before placing a new crown.
- Extraction: In rare cases, if the tooth is beyond repair, extraction and replacement options like dental implants or bridges may be considered.
Temporary Crown
While waiting for a permanent crown (which may take a few days to fabricate), our dentist in Scottsdale may place a temporary crown to protect the tooth.
To schedule an appointment with our emergency dentist, contact Pristine Dental at (480) 935-2424.
Preventing Future Dental Crown Problems
While some dental crown issues are unavoidable, there are certain steps you can take to protect your dental crowns and reduce the risk of future dental emergencies:
- Avoid Hard Foods: Refrain from chewing ice, hard candies, or nuts that could damage your crown.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth or play contact sports, use a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your crowns.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit our dentist for routine cleanings to prevent decay under the crown.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule bi-annual dental visits to catch potential issues early.
- Address Bruxism: If you clench or grind your teeth, ask your dentist about a nightguard or other treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wait to fix a broken dental crown?
No, delaying treatment can lead to further damage, infection, or tooth loss. Contact a dentist as soon as possible to protect your oral health.
Can I glue my crown back on myself?
Never use household glues like super glue, as they can damage the crown and tooth. Use temporary dental cement from a pharmacy and see a dentist immediately.
How long does it take to fix a broken crown?
Re-cementing or repairing a crown can often be done in one visit (30 to 60 minutes). Replacing a crown may require two visits, with a temporary crown placed in the meantime.
Emergency Dental Services Near You
A broken dental crown doesn’t have to disrupt your life. At Pristine Dental, we’re here to restore your smile with fast, professional care. Don’t wait! Every moment counts when it comes to protecting your oral health.
Contact the best dentist in Scottsdale by calling (480) 935-2424.