How To Handle A Lost Filling Or Crown

Published March 2, 2023 | By rlilly

When a tooth is damaged due to decay, trauma, or wear, it may require restoration through either a filling or a crown. Both options aim to restore the function and appearance of the tooth, but the choice between the two depends on the extent of the damage. A filling is a dental restoration that involves removing the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and filling the resulting cavity with a tooth-colored material, such as composite resin or amalgam. Fillings are typically recommended for small to moderate cavities that do not compromise the structural integrity of the tooth. On the other hand, a dental crown, also known as a cap, is a prosthetic device that covers the entire visible portion of a damaged tooth. A crown may be recommended for more extensive damage, such as a large cavity or a cracked tooth, or for cosmetic reasons. Crowns can be made of various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination. The decision between a filling and a crown is typically made by a dentist after evaluating the extent of the damage and considering other factors, such as the location of the tooth, the patient’s oral health history, and the patient’s aesthetic preferences. It is important to address dental problems promptly, as delaying treatment may lead to more extensive damage and require more invasive and costly procedures.

Below are ways to handle a lost filling or crown. This can be a common problem and it is important to treat it carefully, as it will require careful attention to avoid potential major dental issues.

1. Consider Replacing The Tooth.

The tooth may require more calcium from the diet to move the tooth back into position. If it is missing a small amount of enamel, consider coloring or bonding it with a temporary filling until you are able to get in for a permanent filling. The porous nature of the tooth increases the risk of decay in this area, so it is recommended to have the tooth monitored.

2. Seal The Tooth

This is best applied with a temporary material, like a silicone rubber sealant. Be sure to cover the perimeter of the tooth to avoid trapping debris in the gap between the filling and the surrounding teeth. The sealing material will react to any trapped debris.

3. Seal The Crown With A Temporary Filling

If the crown is missing, covering the area with a simple temporary filling will prevent loss of the crown and will delay any negative reaction caused by saliva or other material that can seal out harmful bacteria. The sealing material used in this case should be made of an acelluar, contact-type adhesive and it should be kept moist with saliva on a regular basis. If there is any tooth decay present in the cavity, the decay needs to be treated before the sealant can be applied without risking breakage or discoloration of the crown at high temperatures needed for sealing.

4. Seal The Crown With A Permanent Filling

It is important to be aware that some permanent ceramic crowns are designed to accept only one type of filling material, primarily inert substances like carbamide peroxide. This material, however, can corrode any filling material that is not compatible with it, and this may lead to improper placement or an unwanted reaction. If a crown is lost and the filling material used for sealing is incompatible with the porcelain crown, taking steps towards repairing the crown should be considered before attempting to preserve the tooth.

5. Wait For Your Doctor To Replace The Crown

This will hopefully prevent further damage to your tooth and would spare you from unnecessary dental procedures such as extractions or fillings later on.

6. Replace The Crown With A Shatter-Retained Crown

If a crown can be saved, it is important to know the proper way to treat the broken fragments that are left over after the crown breaks down. This will ensure that further damage is minimized and maintain the appearance of the tooth. It is best to have a dental professional complete this procedure as they are trained in such matters and can provide you with specific instructions to avoid unnecessary dental procedures such as extractions or fillings later on.

Tooth repair and restoration also known as encasement or bonding can be done by a dental professional. It involves changing the appearance or function of a tooth, by adding new dentin or bone to the tooth.

7. Replace The Crown

A crown (also known as cap) is a prosthetic device that covers the visible portion of a damaged tooth. Crowns can be made of various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination. The decision between a filling and a crown is typically made by a dentist after evaluating the extent of the damage and considering other factors, such as the location of the tooth, the patient’s oral health history, and the patient’s aesthetic preferences. It is important to address dental problems promptly, as delaying treatment may lead to more extensive damage and require more invasive and costly procedures.

8. See Your Dentist

9. Sealing The Tooth

Conclusion