What Should You Do When a Filling or Crown Falls Out?
If your crown falls off, save it. Rinse it gently and store it in a clean container. Do not try to glue it back with household adhesive; that can damage the tooth and make proper reattachment harder.
For a lost filling, the cavity is now open. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water and avoid chewing on that side. You can place a small piece of sugar-free gum or dental cement (available at most pharmacies) over the exposed area as a temporary cover.
Call (240) 387-8233 right away. The longer the tooth sits exposed, the greater the risk of decay, sensitivity, and fracture. A tooth without its crown is structurally weakened and can break if you bite down on something hard.
Why Do Fillings and Crowns Fall Out?
Fillings and crowns are held in place by dental cement and the shape of the preparation underneath. Over time, several things can cause them to loosen:
Decay forming under the restoration: Bacteria can work their way under the edge of a filling or crown and dissolve the tooth underneath. This changes the shape of the preparation and the restoration no longer fits.
Normal wear: Dental cement breaks down over years of chewing forces, hot and cold cycling, and chemical exposure from saliva and food.
Biting something hard: A sudden impact from biting a hard object (ice, a bone fragment, hard candy) can knock a filling loose or pop a crown off.
Grinding or clenching: Chronic bruxism puts excessive sideways force on restorations, loosening them over time.
If your crown falls out clean, without any tooth fragments attached, it can usually be re-cemented in one quick appointment. If decay is present underneath, the tooth needs to be cleaned and reshaped before a new restoration is placed.
How Do We Fix a Lost Filling or Crown?
When you bring your crown to our office, we start by examining the tooth underneath. We take an X-ray to check for decay, cracks, or nerve damage.
If the tooth and the crown are both in good shape: We clean both surfaces, apply fresh dental cement, and seat the crown. This takes about 20 minutes.
If decay is present under the crown: We remove the decay, rebuild the tooth with a core material if needed, and then either re-cement the existing crown (if it still fits) or take impressions for a new one. A temporary crown protects the tooth while the permanent one is being made.
For lost fillings: We clean out the old filling material and any new decay, then place a new composite filling matched to your tooth colour. If the cavity has expanded significantly, a crown may be a better option for long-term strength.
We complete most of these procedures in a single visit at our North Bethesda clinic.
Is a Lost Filling or Crown a Dental Emergency?
It depends on the situation, but we always recommend being seen within 24 to 48 hours.
If there is pain, sensitivity, or a sharp edge: Come in the same day.
If the tooth feels fine and the area is not sensitive: You have a short window, but do not put it off more than a day or two. The exposed tooth is vulnerable to rapid decay and fracture.
A lost crown on a front tooth is also worth treating quickly for cosmetic reasons. We understand that a visible gap affects your confidence and daily life.
Call (240) 387-8233 and describe your situation. We will advise you on timing and schedule your appointment accordingly. Patients come to us from Rockville, Bethesda, Gaithersburg, Wheaton, Potomac, and across Montgomery County for fast restoration repair.
