Lost Filling or Crown

What Is Lost Filling or Crown?

Fillings and crowns can fall out due to recurrent decay underneath, biting hard foods, age, or simply cement failure. When a crown or filling is lost, the exposed tooth structure is vulnerable to pain, temperature sensitivity, further decay, and fracture. While not life-threatening, a lost restoration should be addressed within a day or two.

How It Works

If you still have the crown, clean it and keep it. Many dentists can re-cement a crown at an emergency appointment. If the crown is damaged or decay is found underneath, a new impression is taken and a new crown fabricated. Lost fillings are replaced with a new one after the dentist cleans out any recurrent decay.

Key Benefits

• Prevents pain and temperature sensitivity
• Protects exposed dentin from bacteria and decay
• A crown that fell off can often be re-cemented same day
• Avoids more extensive treatment from a broken, unprotected tooth

Frequently Asked Questions