young woman holds her jaw in pain with a lost crown

Can a Lost Filling or Crown Wait or Is It an Emergency?

March 7, 2024 7:10 pm | Published by

A crown or filling coming out can be concerning, but whether it constitutes a dental emergency depends on various factors. Here are some of the things to assess if you’ve lost a filling or crown to determine whether or not you’re experiencing a dental emergency.

Severity of Discomfort

If you’re experiencing severe pain or discomfort after a crown or filling comes out, it may indicate underlying issues such as nerve exposure or infection. In such cases, seeking prompt dental care is essential to alleviate pain and prevent further complications.

Ability to Function

Consider how the loss of the crown or filling affects your ability to eat, speak, or carry out daily activities. If the absence of the restoration significantly impairs your ability to function normally, it may warrant seeking immediate dental attention to restore functionality and prevent further damage.

Presence of Sharp Edges

Exposed tooth surfaces or sharp edges from a lost crown or filling can cause irritation or injury to the soft tissues of the mouth. If you notice any sharp edges or rough surfaces, it’s advisable to address them promptly to prevent discomfort and potential damage to oral tissues.

Risk of Decay or Damage

Leaving a tooth exposed without its protective crown or filling increases the risk of decay, further damage, or fracture. Without the restoration in place, the affected tooth is vulnerable to bacterial invasion and structural compromise. In such cases, timely intervention can help preserve the tooth and prevent more extensive treatment in the future.

Exceptional, Budget-Friendly Dentistry in Mililani, HI

While a crown or filling coming out may not always constitute a dental emergency, severe pain, impaired function, sharp edges, and risk of decay or damage warrant prompt attention from your dentist.

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, please don’t wait to reach out to Mauka Family Dental. Our expert staff can have you back to 100% fast!

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