Broken or Lost Dental Crown in West Windsor: Emergency Solutions

Dental crowns are an excellent way to protect weakened teeth, restore chewing function, and improve appearance. They are designed to last for many years, but like any restoration, they are not indestructible. Sometimes crowns chip, crack, or even fall off unexpectedly. When that happens, the underlying tooth is left vulnerable, and prompt attention becomes essential.

At Dental Innovations in West Windsor, we see patients every week who experience sudden issues with a crown. Knowing what causes crowns to break, what to do immediately, and how dentists can repair or replace them helps patients avoid pain, infection, and further damage.

Causes of Broken or Lost Crowns in West Windsor

There are several reasons why crowns may break or come loose. At our West Windsor practice, we most often see crown problems caused by:

• Biting hard foods: Chewing on ice, hard candy, or nuts can crack porcelain or ceramic crowns. Even habits like chewing on pens or fingernails put stress on restorations and increase the risk of sudden fractures.
  
• Tooth decay under the crown: Crowns themselves don’t decay, but the natural tooth beneath them can. If decay develops at the edges or under the crown, it may weaken the foundation, causing the crown to loosen or break away.
  
• Accidents or trauma: A fall, sports injury, or blow to the face can easily damage or dislodge a crown, even one that was otherwise healthy.
  
• Age of the crown: Most crowns last 10–15 years. Older restorations are more prone to wear, cracks, or bonding failure due to years of normal chewing forces.
  
• Bruxism (teeth grinding): Constant grinding or clenching puts heavy pressure on crowns, wearing them down faster and often leading to chips or fractures.

Understanding these causes helps patients take preventive steps, like avoiding hard foods, scheduling regular checkups, and wearing a nightguard if they grind their teeth. With the right care, crowns in West Windsor can last for many years before needing replacement.

What to Do if a Crown Breaks or Falls Off in West Windsor

When a crown breaks or falls out, staying calm and taking the right steps can protect your tooth until you see a dentist. Here’s what to do:

• Save the crown: If the crown is intact, place it in a clean container or plastic bag. Sometimes it can be re-cemented if the fit and condition are still good.
  
• Avoid chewing on the tooth: The exposed tooth is vulnerable and may be sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure. Using it for chewing could lead to cracks or additional damage.
  
• Keep the area clean: Gently rinse with warm salt water to reduce bacteria and irritation, especially if food particles collect in the area.
  
• Use temporary dental cement if needed: Drugstores often carry dental repair kits. You can place a small amount inside the crown to temporarily secure it. Avoid household adhesives like super glue, which are unsafe and harmful to both the tooth and your health.
  
• Call your dentist immediately: The sooner you’re seen, the more options you’ll have for repair or re-cementing. Acting quickly also helps prevent infection, pain, or the need for a full replacement.

Can I use super glue to fix my crown at home in West Windsor?

No. Super glue and other household adhesives are toxic and unsafe for use in the mouth. They can irritate gums, damage the tooth surface, and make proper dental repair more difficult. If your crown comes off, use temporary dental cement from a pharmacy until you can get to Dental Innovations in West Windsor. Temporary cement is designed specifically for oral use and can help hold the crown in place safely for a short time. Remember, this is not a permanent fix—only your dentist can properly secure or replace the crown.

What happens if I swallow my crown?

Accidentally swallowing a crown can be alarming, but in most cases, it passes naturally through the digestive system without harm. If you experience choking, difficulty breathing, or stomach pain, seek medical attention immediately. Otherwise, contact your West Windsor dentist to plan for crown repair or replacement. In some cases, your dentist may recommend taking X-rays to confirm the crown’s passage if there’s uncertainty about its location. Although swallowing a crown rarely causes serious problems, acting quickly ensures your health is protected and that your smile is restored without unnecessary delays.

How Dentists Repair or Replace Crowns in West Windsor

Once you arrive at the office, your dentist will determine whether the crown can be reused or if a new one is needed. At Dental Innovations, we offer several solutions:

• Re-cementing: If the crown is intact and the underlying tooth is healthy, it can often be cleaned and re-cemented the same day.
  
• Repairing minor damage: Small chips in porcelain crowns can sometimes be smoothed or repaired with composite resin.
  
• Replacing the crown: If the crown is cracked, lost, or no longer fits properly due to decay or gum changes, a new crown will be made.
  
• Same-day crowns (CEREC technology): For many patients in West Windsor, we can design, mill, and place a brand-new porcelain crown in a single visit. This eliminates the need for a temporary crown and multiple appointments.
  
• Temporary crowns: If additional treatment is needed first (such as addressing decay or root canal therapy), a temporary crown may be placed to protect the tooth until the permanent one is ready.

Our goal is always to restore both strength and appearance as quickly and comfortably as possible.

FAQs About Broken Crowns in West Windsor

Is a broken crown always an emergency in West Windsor?

Yes. While a broken crown may not always cause pain, the tooth underneath is exposed and vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, or further breakage. Even if you aren’t in discomfort, it’s important to call a dentist promptly to prevent complications.

Can a crown be reused after it falls off?

Often, yes. If the crown is undamaged and the underlying tooth structure is still healthy, it can be cleaned and re-cemented. However, if the crown is cracked, worn, or doesn’t fit properly anymore, replacement will be the best option.

How much does emergency crown repair cost in West Windsor?

Costs vary depending on whether the crown can be re-cemented or if a new one is needed. Re-cementing is generally less expensive, while replacement costs depend on the material chosen. At Dental Innovations, we provide transparent pricing and review all options so patients understand their choices before treatment begins.

Can I eat with a broken crown?

It’s best to avoid chewing on the affected tooth until it’s repaired. Eating with a broken or missing crown can damage the exposed tooth or cause further cracking. Stick to soft foods on the opposite side until your dentist has restored the crown.

Will a broken crown always need replacing?

Not always. Some crowns can be reattached successfully if they’re in good shape. Replacement is usually only needed if the crown is damaged, doesn’t fit anymore, or if decay has compromised the tooth underneath.

Emergency Crown Repair in West Windsor

A broken or lost crown may feel overwhelming, but quick action makes all the difference. Saving the crown, protecting the exposed tooth, and contacting your dentist right away can prevent pain and more serious problems.

At Dental Innovations in West Windsor, we understand how stressful dental emergencies can be. That’s why we prioritize urgent cases and offer same-day crown solutions whenever possible. Whether your crown can be repaired, re-cemented, or needs replacement, we’ll guide you through the process with care and expertise.

If you’re dealing with a broken crown in West Windsor, don’t wait. Call our office today for emergency dental care and let us restore your smile quickly and comfortably.