How to fix a broken dental crown?

Cracked dental crown treatment options

A broken dental crown may be frightening, but in many cases, a dentist can fix it. Here are some of the repair options as well as alternative treatments.

Re-cementing the crown

If there are  no serious damages to your dental crown or tooth, your dentist may be able to re-cement the crown that has come off. This procedure is simple and non-invasive.

Your dentist will disinfect your tooth and crown. The tooth also may require  desensitization before your doctor places the crown back in place.

After these preparations, the dentist will place the same crown with a cement mixture onto your tooth and verify that the crown has been properly cemented.

Crown repair

If your dental crown does not have severe damage, your dentist may be able to repair it with composite resin. This  is somewhat similar to the dental procedure  used in cosmetic treatments for  small fractures in teeth. This is also a non-invasive procedure. 

Replacing the crown

If the crown is irreparable, the dentist will decide to replace it. Firstly, your doctor will anesthetize the gums. 

Then, the doctor will make a small hole or use leverage to break the seal of the cement. This will help to lift off the crown. The dentist may use a special substance to loosen the cement.

Afterwards, the dentist will clean the residue and debris. If necessary, the dental specialist will prepare your teeth with a dental handpiece for a new crown. Until the crown is ready, you may need to wear a temporary crown.

Dental Implant

A badly damaged tooth may not be able to be restored with a new dental crown. . In this case, your dentist may choose to extract the non-restorable tooth and replace the area  with a dental implant and implant-crown

Your dentist may use either local or general anesthesia. The doctor will then cut a small hole in your gums to insert a titanium post. This post is implanted deep into the jaw and acts like a root.

The new crown is then placed on the post. If the jaw bone is dense enough and with routine check-ups and proper home-care, you will be able to use your implant for decades.

Dealing with a broken crown at home

Treat a broken crown as an emergency and see a dentist. However, there are a few things you can do to help relieve the pain and protect the broken tooth. 

Use a cold compress and/or take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen to ease the pain. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water which will reduce inflammation and infection. If the broken crown is still in place, avoid biting or chewing with that side of your mouth until you see a dentist. 

If the crown has fallen out, you can temporarily attach it to the tooth with over-the-counter dental cement or toothpaste. Be careful not to swallow the dental crown to avoid health complications.

Remember that these are all temporary solutions. See a dentist as soon as possible for proper treatment.

Symptoms of a broken dental crown

Usually, you feel a broken crown with your tongue. Depending on its location, you may also be able to see the damage such as cracks. 

Causes of a broken dental crown

A jaw or facial injury such as direct physical impact on the tooth is a common cause of a broken dental crown.  Damage or decay under the dental crown and on the tooth structure can cause damage. Also, improper placement of a crown can lead to  uneven pressure and damage.

Dental crowns can also wear down which weakens their structure especially in patients with bruxism.