What to Do Immediately If Your Dental Crown Breaks

What to Do Immediately If Your Dental Crown Breaks

May 1, 2025

Your smile deserves a quick rescue when disaster strikes—and guess what? You’ve got options. If your crown suddenly cracks mid-bite, don’t panic. At our trusted dental clinic in Columbus, OH, we help patients handle surprises like this daily. Whether painful or painless, here’s what to do next to protect your tooth and peace of mind.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

First things first: don’t panic.

Yes, it’s annoying. Yes, it can feel scary. But a broken dental crown is more common than you think—and very fixable.

Take a moment. Breathe.

Then:

  • Check your mouth in the mirror.
  • Is the underlying tooth exposed?
  • Are there any sharp edges?
  • Are you in pain, or just surprised?

Sometimes, a crown falls out, but it doesn’t hurt. That’s good news. It likely means there’s no exposed nerve. But you still need to act—because food, bacteria, or pressure on that tooth can cause more significant problems quickly.

Retrieve and Protect the Broken Crown (If Possible)

If your crown popped out or cracked into a piece or two, find it. Even if it’s damaged, your dentist might be able to use part of it again. Gently rinse the crown with warm water and keep it safely in a clean container or plastic bag.

Here’s a quick checklist:

  • Don’t bite down on that side of your mouth.
  • Avoid sticky, hard, or crunchy foods.
  • Wash your mouth with salt water to keep the area clean.

If the crown broke off at the gum line, leave it alone. Don’t try to remove any parts stuck to the tooth. That can lead to more pain or even damage.

Manage Pain or Sensitivity at Home

Some people feel zero discomfort after their crown breaks. Others feel a zing every time air hits the tooth. It all depends on how much of your natural tooth was exposed underneath the crown.

Here’s what you can do at home:

  • Gently clean around the tooth. Use a soft toothbrush for this.
  • Avoid hot or cold drinks that might trigger sensitivity.
  • Apply dental wax (available at most drugstores) to cover sharp edges if needed.
  • Over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen can help take the edge off if you’re sore.

Also, steer clear of chewing on the side with the broken crown.

Temporary Fixes You Can Try (But Only Temporarily)

If you can’t get to the dentist immediately, and your broken dental crown is feeling sensitive, you might consider a temporary fix. These are not long-term solutions, but they can help for a day or two.

  • Temporary dental cement: You can find it at most pharmacies. Some people use it to glue the crown back on but only do this if the crown is intact and your tooth doesn’t hurt.
  • Sugar-free gum or dental wax: Just a small bit can cover sharp areas to prevent your tongue from getting scratched.

Don’t use superglue or any DIY glue methods. That can damage your tooth or make it harder for the dentist to do proper crown repair later.

Call Your Dentist Right Away

Even if you’re not in pain, don’t delay calling. Broken crowns aren’t always urgent, but they are time-sensitive. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of decay, further breakage, or gum irritation.

Tell your dentist:

  • When the crown broke
  • If you’re in pain or not
  • Whether you still have the crown
  • Any swelling or bleeding (if present)

If you’re looking for help fast, search for a dentist near you to find someone local who can handle emergency dental needs. Ideally, go to a clinic that understands same-day or next-day crown repairs.

We treat situations like this every week. Whether it’s a crown that fell off during dinner or one that cracked during your workout, we’re here to help.

Why Dental Crowns Break (and How to Avoid It Next Time)

Dental crowns are strong but not indestructible. Some of the most common reasons for a broken crown include:

  • Chewing hard food items like ice, nuts, or hard candy
  • Grinding or clenching your teeth
  • Age and wear from years of use
  • Poorly fitted crowns from the beginning

A simple bite guard at night or skipping that caramel apple can go a long way in keeping your new crown safe once it’s replaced.

Final Tips Before Your Appointment

Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring and do before you head to the dentist:

  • Bring your broken crown in a clean bag
  • Make a list of any discomfort or symptoms.
  • Take a photo of the tooth if you can’t describe it well.
  • Avoid eating or drinking right before your visit.

This helps your dentist assess the damage quickly and recommend the best fix, whether it’s reattaching your crown or replacing it with a new one.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let a broken crown stress you out—help is just a call away. Taking quick action makes all the difference. For expert care and same-day support, contact our trusted dental clinic in Columbus, OH, Capitol Square Dental, today. We’re here to restore your smile with ease and care. We’re here, ready to restore your smile. Contact us today; your healthy, happy smile depends on it!

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