During these uncertain times with COVID-19, we’ve had calls from some of our patients because they are experiencing some kind of tooth pain. They really don’t want to wait to see if “it will get better”.  Normally, they would just call and come in for an appointment. However, because of the lockdowns and the recommendations from the Australian Dental Association to defer all routine dental treatments (level 3 restrictions), they are uncertain what they can do about this pain, and even if they can see a dentist.  In light of this, in conjunction with Smile Docs®, we will publishing a series of articles called: “What Can You Do When You Can’t Get To See The Dentist”.

In this post, we’ll address a common patient concern of a crown coming loose and falling off.

If You Lost a Dental Crown, What Do You Do?

Dental Crowns can become loose over time either because of wear and tear or something like decay. If one falls off, it’s not a pleasant experience, and you may be worried about increased sensitivity or damage to the underlying tooth.

First of all I want you all to know that we are here for you. Simply email us or call the practice. All calls are diverted to the doctor for any emergencies or online consults so you can be looked after. Here are a few pointers as to what you can do in the meantime:

• Don’t panic!  The tooth underneath may be a little sensitive and that is completely normal .
• Check to see if the inside of the crown is filled or is it hollow? This will determine if the tooth inside the crown has broken or whether it is just the crown has come off the tooth.
• Clean the crown with water and a soft tooth brush.  Be careful to block the sink holes so that you can’t accidentally drop the crown down the sink.
• Rinse your mouth and clean around the tooth gently with warm water and a soft brush if it is not too  sensitive just to get all the food around it away
• Try to see if the crown fits back on snugly. It should only fit on one way.
• If it can sit back on firmly, then you can pop over to a chemist to get some temporary crown material and stick it back on yourself for the time being. Follow instructions for the different materials that are available.
• If it cannot sit back on the tooth securely then it is best to perhaps leave it off and give us a call.
• This crown will not be the strongest, held with the temporary cement but it should suffice till you  can get in to see a dentist.

If in any doubt or distress, please don’t, just pick up the phone and we will be on the other end to help you. The practice phones have been diverted to the doctor who is here to help and support you all through this time. We are here for you to support you at this time. We are in this together. Please reach out if you need us. The spread of COVID-19 continues to affect us all.

With the uncertainty of what is yet to come as a result of this pandemic, we continue to monitor the situation and remain focused on the health and safety of the patients we love, our dedicated staff, our community, and our families. In accordance with the latest recommendations from the ADA (Australian Dental Association), and to make sure we are doing our part to prevent unnecessary exposure to our patients and staff as well as the further spread of the virus, we will be deferring all routine dental treatments and restricting appointments to urgent treatment and emergencies only.

If you have a dental emergency and would like to schedule an appointment, click the link below or you may call our office directly.

While restrictions are in place we will be offer a FREE TeleDental Consultation and Smile Assessment. If you have a dental emergency and would like to schedule an appointment you may contact Dr. Vicky using our online appointment scheduler or call her office at (08) 9316 6844.

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