Loose or Lost Crown Treatment in Highgate

What Happens When a Crown Comes Loose?

A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Over time, crowns can become loose or fall off entirely, leaving the underlying tooth exposed and vulnerable. At N6 Dental Platinum in Highgate, we offer emergency appointments to address loose or lost crowns promptly and prevent further damage to your tooth.

A loose crown should always be treated as an urgent matter. The tooth beneath the crown is often weakened or has been previously treated, meaning it is more susceptible to sensitivity, decay, and fracture when left unprotected.

Why Do Crowns Become Loose or Fall Off?

• Wear and ageing: The dental cement holding the crown in place can weaken over time, especially with older restorations.
• Tooth decay: Decay can develop beneath or around the crown, compromising the seal and fit.
• Sticky or hard foods: Chewing toffee, caramel, hard bread, or similar foods can dislodge a crown.
• Teeth grinding: Bruxism places repetitive stress on crowns, loosening them over time.
• Trauma or injury: A knock or fall can displace a crown.
• Poor fit or previous workmanship: A crown that was not properly fitted may be more prone to coming loose.

Symptoms of a Loose Crown

• The crown feels wobbly or moves when you touch it with your tongue
• A gap appears between the crown and the gum line
• Sensitivity or discomfort when eating or drinking
• Pain or tenderness around the affected tooth
• A bad taste in the mouth, which may suggest decay or trapped bacteria
• The crown has come off completely

Treatment Options

When you visit N6 Dental Platinum with a loose or lost crown, we will examine the underlying tooth and the crown itself to determine the most suitable course of action:

• Re-cementation: If the crown and underlying tooth are in good condition, we can clean and re-cement the original crown back in place.
• Repair and re-fit: If there is minor damage to the crown, we may be able to repair and re-attach it.
• New crown: If the original crown is damaged, worn, or no longer fits properly, we will arrange for a new crown to be made.
• Treatment of underlying decay: If decay has developed beneath the crown, this will need to be addressed before a new crown can be placed.
• Temporary crown: In some cases, a temporary crown will be fitted to protect the tooth while a permanent replacement is being prepared.

What to Do If Your Crown Falls Off

• Keep the crown safe — do not throw it away, as it may be possible to re-attach it
• Clean the crown gently and store it in a clean container
• If the exposed tooth is sensitive, apply a small amount of temporary dental cement or denture adhesive (available from pharmacies) to protect it
• Avoid eating on the affected side
• Do not attempt to re-attach the crown yourself with household glue
• Contact us as soon as possible to arrange an emergency appointment

Preventing Crown Problems

• Attend regular dental check-ups so your crowns can be monitored
• Avoid chewing very sticky or hard foods directly on crowned teeth
• If you grind your teeth, wear a night guard to protect dental restorations
• Maintain good oral hygiene, paying particular attention to the gum line around crowns

If your crown has come loose or fallen off, contact N6 Dental Platinum in Highgate on 020 4512 4766 for an emergency appointment. We are conveniently located at 345 Archway Road, directly opposite Highgate Station, and are here to help restore your crown and protect your tooth.