Lost Filling or Crown? What to Do Until You Can See Your Dentist

A lost filling or crown could be a dental emergency in Indianapolis, IN, and beyond, especially if you are experiencing pain. There are things you can do to protect your tooth until you get to the dentist’s office, though. It takes just a few simple dental first aid steps to bridge the gap between a lost filling or crown and a trip to your emergency dentist.

Find the Lost Piece, If Possible

The first step is to look for the missing filling or crown. This is critical because it could still be in your mouth. Left there, you might inhale or swallow it. That can cause serious medical and even life-threatening complications, such as pneumonia.

The missing piece can also help your dentist create a new one or even reinstall what you lost. If you do find it, place the filling or crown in a secure, sealed container and take it to the dentist with you.

Rinse Your Mouth Out

The next step is to rinse your mouth well with warm salt or plain water. It removes any debris that might be caught in the open space of the tooth. That could include foods or even small particles of cement.

Cover Any Sharp Edges

If you notice sharp or abrasive edges on the tooth, cover them with sugar-free gum or a dental adhesive. This will protect the soft tissue around the broken tooth. Without that protection, the sharp edges might cut the inside of your mouth or create sores. If you don’t have gum or dental adhesive, ask the pharmacist for a recommendation.

Be Careful About What You Eat

Until you see the dentist, avoid eating cold, hot, or spicy foods. When you do eat, chew on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid getting food into the broken tooth.

If you notice a filling or crown missing, call our emergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN, right away to make an appointment.