Tooth Crowns: Causes, Care, and What To Do If Your Crown Falls Out

A tooth crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. It helps protect the remaining tooth structure while improving appearance and function. However, even the ideal dental crowns can sometimes come loose or fall out due to wear, decay, or damage. Knowing what to do next can help you avoid further complications and discomfort.

Tooth crowns are commonly recommended for people dealing with cracked, decayed, or heavily restored teeth. If your crown feels loose or has fallen out, schedule an appointment with a dentist near you as soon as possible to prevent further damage and discomfort.

Key Takeaways

• Tooth crowns protect and restore damaged or decayed teeth, but they can come loose over time.

• Common causes include weakened cement, decay, or damage beneath the crown.

• Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods and keep the area clean if your crown falls out.

• A dentist near you can evaluate whether it can be reattached or replaced.

• Proper hygiene and regular check-ups help prevent future crown issues.

Tooth crowns are durable but not indestructible. If one falls out, it’s important to keep the crown safe, avoid chewing on that side, and contact a dentist as soon as possible. Crowns may come loose due to cement breakdown, decay, or wear. A professional can assess whether to re-cement or replace the crown based on your tooth’s condition.

What Is a Tooth Crown and Why Is It Needed?

A tooth crown, also called a dental crown, is a protective covering placed over a tooth that has been damaged, decayed, or weakened. It serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. Unlike veneers that only cover the front surface, crowns envelop the entire tooth, restoring its strength and structure.

You might need a tooth crown if you have:

• A cracked or broken tooth

• Severe decay that cannot be restored with a simple filling

• A large filling that weakens the tooth structure

• A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment

• Cosmetic concerns such as discolouration or uneven shape

Crowns are made from various materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of both. Your dentist will recommend the most suitable type based on your bite, aesthetic preferences, and budget.

How Does a Tooth Crown Work?

Tooth crowns act as a durable shell that protects the inner tooth from pressure and bacteria. During the procedure, the dentist near you prepares the tooth by shaping it and taking an impression. This impression is used to create a crown that fits snugly over the tooth.

The crown is cemented securely, restoring your ability to chew comfortably and smile confidently. When properly fitted, it can last many years with routine care and regular dental visits.

Why Do Tooth Crowns Come Loose or Fall Out?

Even though tooth crowns are designed to be strong and long-lasting, several factors can cause them to become loose or fall out. Understanding these reasons can help prevent recurrence.

Common causes include:

1. Worn or weakened cement 

   The adhesive that secures your crown may degrade over time, especially if you consume acidic foods or neglect regular cleaning.

   
   

2. Tooth decay under the crown 

   Bacteria can seep under the crown edges if cement wears away, leading to decay that weakens the underlying tooth.

   
   

3. Improper crown fit 

   If the crown doesn’t fit perfectly, it may become loose with regular chewing or grinding.

   
   

4. Sticky or hard foods 

   Chewing sticky sweets or hard foods like ice can pull or damage a crown.

   
   

5. Teeth grinding (bruxism) 

   Excessive grinding exerts pressure that can loosen or damage both natural teeth and crowns.

   
   

6. Insufficient tooth structure

   If there isn’t enough natural tooth to hold the crown securely, it may detach over time.

What To Do If Your Tooth Crown Falls Out

If your dental crown falls out, remain calm and follow these steps to prevent further damage.

1. Find and keep the crown 

   Do not swallow it. Rinse it gently with clean water and place it in a safe container.

   
   

2. Avoid chewing on the affected side 

   Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side to avoid discomfort or injury.

   
   

3. Keep the area clean 

   Gently brush your teeth and rinse with warm salt water to prevent infection.

   
   

4. Contact your dentist immediately 

   Schedule an appointment at a dental clinic to have the crown evaluated.

   
   

Your dentist will assess whether the crown can be re-cemented or if you need a replacement. Avoid using over-the-counter glue or adhesives, as these can damage both the crown and the tooth.

What If a Temporary Crown Falls Out?

Temporary crowns are often used while waiting for a permanent one to be fabricated. These are fixed with temporary cement, making them more prone to coming loose.

If this happens:

• Keep the temporary crown safe.

• Avoid sticky and chewy foods.

• Contact your dentist for re-cementation or further advice.

  
  

Temporary crowns protect the prepared tooth from sensitivity and shifting, so getting it replaced quickly is important.

Treating Teeth After a Crown Falls Out

When you visit a dentist near you, they will check both the crown and the exposed tooth. If the crown is still intact, it might be possible to reattach it. If the tooth has decayed or fractured, a new crown may be required.

Treatment may involve:

• Cleaning the tooth and crown

• Rebuilding the tooth with filling material

• Taking new impressions for a replacement crown

Some clinics offer same-day crowns using ceramic technology. This allows you to avoid wearing a temporary crown and complete treatment within a single visit.

Can You Prevent a Crown From Falling Out?

While not all issues are preventable, you can significantly reduce risks through good oral care habits.

• Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods.

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

• Floss carefully around the crown edges.

• Use interdental brushes to clean near the gum line.

• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night.

• Schedule regular check-ups at your dental clinic.

Consistent care helps ensure that your dental crowns remain secure and functional for years.

How To Care for Your Tooth Crown So It Lasts

Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your crown. Here’s how to keep it in good shape:

• Brush gently but thoroughly to prevent plaque buildup.

• Avoid biting on pens, fingernails, or ice.

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash daily.

• Visit your dental clinic regularly for professional cleaning.

Where To Compare Options

When considering crown replacement or repair, it’s ideal to consult trusted dental clinics. Compare services, materials offered, and aftercare. EZ Dental Care provides crown treatments in both Bedok North and Geylang Bahru, alongside other dental clinics in Singapore. Always review your dentist’s experience and the available material choices before proceeding.

FAQs

How long do tooth crowns last?

Most dental crowns last between 5 and 15 years depending on material, oral hygiene, and bite habits.

 Is it painful when a crown falls out?

You may feel sensitivity or discomfort, especially if the exposed tooth nerves are affected, but severe pain is uncommon.

Can I reattach my own crown?

No. Avoid using any glue or cement yourself. Only a qualified dentist should reattach or replace it.

What happens if I swallow a crown?

It usually passes naturally through the digestive system, but contact your dentist for advice.

Can I eat without a crown?

It’s ideal to avoid chewing on that side. The exposed tooth is more vulnerable to damage and sensitivity.

How can I tell if my crown is loose

You may feel movement when biting or flossing, or experience pain when chewing.

Do crowns need special cleaning products?

No, standard toothpaste and mouthwash are fine. Just avoid highly abrasive pastes.

How do I know if decay is forming under my crown?

Look for gum swelling, discomfort, or a bad taste near the crowned tooth. A dental check-up can confirm.

Restore Comfort and Confidence With a Secure Tooth Crown

A loose or fallen crown is more common than many realise, but it can be managed effectively with quick action and professional help. Schedule an appointment at EZ Dental Care to have your crown assessed and restored safely.

Our team at Bedok North and Geylang Bahru clinics ensures every visit is comfortable,  Whether it’s a simple re-cementation or a new crown, we make caring for your smile easy.

Contact Us: 

📍 Bedok North Dental Clinic / 📞 +65 9122 8283 

📍 Geylang Bahru Dental Clinic / 📞 +65 8288 7312