Broken Dental Crown: Causes & Quick Fixes

A broken dental crown can be a serious issue, leaving you with discomfort and uncertainty about what to do next. Whether it’s caused by an injury, decay, or simply wear and tear, a broken crown can expose your tooth to further damage and infection. But don’t worry, there are quick fixes available, and professional care can restore your crown and protect your tooth. 

Let’s discuss the common causes of broken crowns, offer temporary solutions, and guide you on when to seek expert dental care.

What Is a Broken Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a protective cap placed over a weakened tooth due to decay, injury, or a previous root canal. The crown helps restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and functionality. However, like any dental appliance, crowns are prone to damage from various factors, such as trauma, excessive wear, or improper fit.

A broken dental crown exposes the underlying tooth to bacteria, infection, and further damage, making it essential to act quickly to avoid complications and restore the crown.

Common Causes of a Broken Dental Crown

Several factors can lead to a broken dental crown. Understanding these causes is key to preventing future damage and ensuring the longevity of your crown. Here are the most common reasons a dental crown may break:

1. Wear and Tear Over Time

Dental crowns are designed to be durable, but with constant use, they can weaken and eventually crack. Normal activities like chewing, speaking, and other daily tasks can degrade the material, especially if the crown is made from porcelain or composite materials.

2. Biting Down on Hard Objects

Chewing on hard foods, such as nuts, ice, or candies, can cause a crown to crack or break. If you have a habit of biting hard objects, you increase the risk of damaging your crown. If your crown has been damaged due to impact or an injury, an emergency dentist with same-day crowns can help you get back to normal faster.

3. Grinding or Clenching Teeth (Bruxism)

If you grind or clench your teeth, excessive pressure is placed on your crown, potentially leading to fractures or loosening. Bruxism, or teeth grinding, often happens at night and can be mitigated by wearing a mouthguard.

4. Poor Fit or Bad Seal

A crown that isn’t properly fitted or sealed may not sit correctly on your tooth. Over time, this can lead to discomfort or damage. Gaps between the crown and the tooth can allow bacteria to enter, weakening the crown and increasing the risk of breakage.

5. Decay Under the Crown

Even though a crown covers a tooth, the underlying tooth can still develop decay, especially if it wasn’t properly cleaned before the crown was placed. Tooth decay under the crown can weaken its structure and cause it to break or loosen.

Signs of a Broken Dental Crown

It’s important to recognize the signs of a broken, loose, or damaged crown early to prevent further damage to your tooth. Here are the key signs to watch out for:

1. Visible cracks or chips: If you notice any visible cracks or chips on your crown, it could indicate that the structure is compromised.
   
2. Pain or sensitivity: If the tooth under your crown becomes sensitive to temperature changes or pressure, it may be a sign that the crown is no longer protecting the tooth as it should.
   
3. Loose or wobbly crown: If your crown feels loose, it may have shifted or come loose from the tooth. This can expose the underlying tooth to infection.
   
4. Discomfort when chewing or biting: If your crown causes pain when you bite down or chew, it may be cracked or improperly fitted.
   
5. A part of the crown has fallen off: If you find part of your crown in your mouth, it’s essential to get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid tooth damage.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent further issues.

Can a Broken Dental Crown Be Repaired?

Yes, in many cases, a broken dental crown can be repaired, but the extent of the damage determines the feasibility of the repair. Minor issues such as small cracks or chips can often be fixed by your dentist using bonding materials or filling agents to restore the crown’s integrity. If the crown is loose but still intact, your dentist can clean the underlying tooth and re-cement the crown for a secure fit.

However, if the crown is severely cracked, broken into pieces, or if the underlying tooth is damaged or decayed, a replacement may be necessary. Your dentist will evaluate the condition of both the crown and the tooth to determine the best course of action for restoring your smile.

How to Fix a Broken Dental Crown at Home: Quick Temporary Solutions

If your dental crown is broken or loose, there are temporary measures you can take to protect your tooth until you can visit your dentist. These are short-term fixes, and you will still need professional help to properly restore your crown. Here are a few quick solutions:

1. Temporary Dental Cement

If your crown has fallen off but is still intact, you can use over-the-counter dental cement to temporarily secure it. Here’s how to use it:

• Clean the crown and exposed tooth: Gently brush both the crown and the underlying tooth to remove debris.
  
• Apply the dental cement: Place a small amount of dental cement inside the crown.
  
• Press the crown onto the tooth: Gently press the crown back onto the tooth, ensuring a secure fit.
  
• Allow the cement to dry: Let the cement set completely, and avoid chewing on the side with the temporary crown.

If you need a permanent solution for your broken crown, consider visiting our page on same-day dental crowns for a quick and effective restoration.

2. Avoid Using the Affected Side

If your crown is cracked or loose, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth to reduce pressure and prevent further damage until you see your dentist.

3. Maintain Oral Hygiene

Keeping your mouth clean is crucial, even if your crown is broken. Gently brush the area around the crown with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss carefully to prevent food or bacteria from getting trapped in the damaged area.

Professional Dental Crown Repair vs Replacement

When you visit your dentist for a broken crown, they will evaluate whether a dental crown repair or replacement is the best option for restoring your tooth. Here’s a breakdown of both processes:

Dental Crown Repair

If the damage to your crown is minor, your dentist may recommend repair instead of replacement. Here’s how it works:

• Minor cracks or chips: If the damage is small, your dentist can repair the crown by adding a filling material or bonding agent to restore its structure and function.
  
• Loose crowns: If your crown is still intact but loose, your dentist will clean the underlying tooth and re-cement the crown to ensure it stays securely in place.
  

Dental Crown Replacement

In cases where the damage is more severe, your dentist will likely recommend replacing the crown. This is necessary when:

• Severe damage: If the crown is severely cracked, broken, or missing a significant portion, your dentist will replace it with a new crown to protect the underlying tooth.
  
• Underlying tooth decay: If the tooth beneath the crown is decayed or weakened, your dentist may need to treat the tooth before placing a new crown to ensure optimal fit and function.

Preventing Future Damage to Your Dental Crown

Taking good care of your dental crown can extend its lifespan and prevent future issues. Here are some tips to help keep your crown in good condition:

1. Wear a Nightguard: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, a custom nightguard can protect your crown from the excessive pressure that can cause it to crack or loosen.
   
2. Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects: Be mindful of what you chew, especially with a crown in place. Avoid biting on hard candies, ice, or other tough objects that could damage or break your crown.
   
3. Keep Up with Dental Visits: Regular check-ups with your dentist help catch any early signs of wear, decay, or poor fit. Early intervention can prevent more serious damage to your crown and tooth.
   
4. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth daily, focusing on cleaning around the crown area to prevent plaque buildup, which can weaken the crown over time.
   
5. Avoid Sticky Foods: Sticky foods like caramel and gum can pull at the edges of your crown, potentially loosening or damaging it. Stick to soft foods that won’t put unnecessary stress on your dental work.

Key Takeaway

A broken dental crown can be both inconvenient and uncomfortable, but with timely attention and proper care, you can prevent further damage and discomfort. Whether you’re using a quick at-home fix or seeking professional help, it’s crucial to address a broken crown immediately to protect your tooth. 

Don’t wait, schedule an appointment with Ammons Dental by Design to restore your smile and maintain your dental health. We have offices in various locations to serve you better. Find the nearest location and book your consultation today!

FAQs

What happens if I leave a broken crown untreated?

Leaving a broken dental crown untreated can expose your tooth to further damage, such as decay, infection, and potential tooth loss. The damaged crown may also cause discomfort or difficulty with chewing. It’s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid these complications.

How soon should I see a dentist if my crown is broken?

If your crown is broken or loose, it’s best to see your dentist as soon as possible. While temporary fixes like dental cement can help protect your tooth in the short term, professional repair or replacement is necessary to fully restore your crown and tooth.

Can I continue to eat with a broken dental crown?

While it’s possible to continue eating with a broken dental crown, it’s important to avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further damage. Stick to soft foods and avoid anything hard or sticky to prevent aggravating the damage until you can see your dentist.

What types of materials are used for dental crowns?

Dental crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of porcelain and metal. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are often preferred for their natural appearance, while metal crowns are known for their durability and strength, especially in the back teeth.

How long does it take to replace a broken dental crown?

The process of replacing a broken dental crown typically takes two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will assess the damage, prepare the tooth, and take impressions for a new crown. The second visit will involve placing the new crown, ensuring it fits properly, and making any necessary adjustments. In some cases, a same-day crown can be created and placed in a single visit, depending on the materials and technology used by your dentist.