Tooth Pain After Crown Fell Off: What to Do

Dental crowns are a common solution for protecting damaged teeth and restoring a confident smile. However, it can be alarming and painful if a crown suddenly comes loose or completely falls off. Understanding why this happens, what steps to take immediately, and how to prevent future problems is essential for protecting your oral health. This blog explains the common causes of tooth pain after a crown falls off, what you should do right away, and when to see a dentist.

Why Your Crown May Have Fallen Off

A dental crown can come loose for several reasons, and identifying the cause can help you and your dentist decide the best treatment:

Decay Under the Crown – If bacteria sneak under the crown and cause decay, the tooth structure weakens, and the crown may no longer fit properly.

Old or Worn Crown – Crowns generally last 5–15 years. Over time, wear and tear can cause the cement to weaken.

Biting on Hard Foods – Chewing ice, nuts, or hard candy can damage the crown or loosen it unexpectedly.

Tooth Grinding (Bruxism) – Constant grinding or clenching creates excessive pressure, leading to crown failure.

Poor Adhesion or Bonding – If the crown wasn’t cemented securely, it might detach sooner than expected.

Why Tooth Pain Happens After a Crown Falls Off

Experiencing pain after losing a crown is very common. Here’s why it happens:

Exposed Tooth Nerves: A crown covers and protects the inner layers of your tooth. When it falls off, these sensitive parts are exposed to air, food, and liquids, causing sharp discomfort.
Decay or Infection: If decay was present under the crown, you might feel throbbing pain due to infection.
Cracked or Damaged Tooth: If the tooth itself was fractured, pain may be caused by pressure or temperature changes.
Gum Inflammation: The exposed area can irritate the gums, leading to swelling and tenderness.

Immediate Steps to Take When a Crown Falls Off

If your crown falls off, don’t panic. Follow these steps to protect your tooth and reduce pain until you can see a dentist:

1. Retrieve the Crown

Carefully pick up the crown and rinse it with warm water.
Place it in a clean container or plastic bag. Your dentist might be able to reuse it if it’s still in good shape.

2. Rinse Your Mouth

Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area and reduce bacteria.
Avoid using mouthwash with alcohol, as it can increase sensitivity.

3. Manage the Pain

Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Avoid extremely hot, cold, or sugary foods that can trigger nerve pain.

4. Temporary Crown Reattachment (Optional)

If you can’t see a dentist right away, purchase temporary dental cement from a pharmacy.
Clean both the tooth and the inside of the crown, then carefully place it back using the temporary adhesive.
Important: Do not use superglue or household adhesives—they are toxic and can cause more damage.

5. Avoid Chewing on That Side

Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth to prevent further irritation or damage.

When to See a Dentist Immediately

Some situations require urgent dental care. Call your dentist as soon as possible if you experience:

Severe or throbbing pain
Swelling in the face or gums
Pus or signs of infection
Difficulty biting or closing your mouth
The crown doesn’t fit back at all

If you can’t reach your dentist, consider visiting an emergency dental clinic or urgent care center that handles dental emergencies.

Possible Treatments Your Dentist May Recommend

After examining the tooth and the fallen crown, your dentist may recommend one of these solutions:

Re-Cementing the Existing Crown – If both the tooth and crown are in good condition.

New Crown Replacement – If the crown is damaged or doesn’t fit anymore.

Tooth Repair or Filling – If decay or cracks are present.

Root Canal Treatment – If the nerve is exposed or infected.

Extraction and Dental Implant – In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved.

Preventing Future Crown Problems

To avoid another dental emergency, take these preventive steps:

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene – Brush and floss daily to prevent decay around the crown.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups – Early detection of issues can save your crown.
Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods – Protect your crown from unnecessary stress.
Consider a Night Guard – If you grind your teeth, a custom mouthguard can prevent damage.
Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions – Proper care ensures a longer lifespan for your crown.

Final Thoughts

A crown falling off can be stressful and painful, but quick action makes a big difference. The key is to protect the exposed tooth, manage your pain, and see a dentist as soon as possible. With timely care, your dentist can often save the crown or restore the tooth with minimal discomfort.

Remember: Dental emergencies should never be ignored. Addressing the problem early not only relieves pain but also prevents further complications, saving you time and money in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I eat after my crown falls off?

It’s best to avoid chewing on the affected side and stick to soft foods until you see your dentist.

2. How long can I wait before seeing a dentist?

Ideally, you should schedule an appointment within 24–48 hours, especially if you have pain or swelling.

3. Can I reattach the crown myself?

You can temporarily reattach it using temporary dental cement, but a dentist must secure it permanently.

4. Will insurance cover crown replacement?

Most dental insurance plans cover part of the cost, especially if the crown fell off due to decay or wear.

Call to Action

If your crown has fallen off and you’re experiencing tooth pain, don’t delay treatment. Contact a dentist immediately to protect your tooth and restore your smile. Early care is the most effective way to prevent further complications.