Filling or crown popped out?
We can usually see you this week.

What to do until we see you

• Save the crown. If you can, rinse it gently and put it in a small bag or container. We may be able to recement the same crown if it’s intact.
• Cover the tooth. Drugstore temporary cement (like Dentemp) can fill a hole left by a missing filling, or hold a loose crown in place for a day or two. Sugar-free gum works in a pinch.
• Avoid chewing on that side — exposed dentin can be very sensitive and the tooth is more vulnerable to fracture.
• Skip very hot, cold, sweet, or sticky foods until the tooth is restored.
• Brush gently. Keep the area clean to prevent bacteria from settling in.

Why crowns and fillings come loose

The most common cause is decay forming underneath an older restoration — once the tooth shrinks slightly, the cement bond fails. Other causes include a sticky food (caramel, taffy) pulling the crown free, biting on something hard, or normal wear on a restoration that’s been in place for many years.

What we’ll do at your visit

Dr. Sanie will examine the tooth and determine whether it’s structurally sound. If your crown is intact and the tooth underneath is healthy, we can often clean and recement the same crown the same visit. If decay has compromised the tooth, we may need a new crown — sometimes preceded by a buildup or, in deeper cases, a root canal to save it.

Time matters

A tooth without its restoration is exposed to bacteria and temperature changes it wasn’t designed for. Within a few weeks, a small problem can turn into a much bigger one. The faster we can see you, the more likely we are to save the original tooth and the original crown.