Losing a filling or crown can leave your tooth vulnerable to damage, sensitivity, or infection. While it’s easy to feel anxious, acting quickly can prevent complications and save your smile. Below, we’ll guide you through urgent steps to take after losing a dental restoration and explain why timely care from a trusted emergency dentist in Orem, Utah, is critical for your oral health.

1. Retrieve the Crown or Filling (If Possible)

First, locate the lost crown or filling. If it’s intact, rinse it gently with warm water to remove debris. Avoid scrubbing or using harsh chemicals, as this could damage the restoration. Temporary crown repair at home may be possible if you can reattach it temporarily with dental cement (available at pharmacies).

Pro Tip: Never use super glue or household adhesives—they can irritate your gums and complicate repairs.

2. Protect the Exposed Tooth

A missing crown or filling exposes the sensitive inner layers of your tooth to bacteria, temperature changes, and pressure. To prevent pain or further damage:

• Cover the area with dental wax or sugar-free gum as a temporary barrier.
• Avoid chewing on the affected side.
• Rinse with warm salt water to reduce infection risk.

Need supplies? Our Orem clinic offers emergency dental kits and guidance for at-home care.

3. Manage Discomfort Safely

Exposed teeth often cause sharp pain or sensitivity. To ease discomfort:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Avoid extremely hot, cold, or sugary foods.

If pain becomes unbearable, emergency dental care for lost fillings is crucial. Delaying treatment risks nerve damage or abscesses.

4. Avoid DIY Fixes (And What to Do Instead)

While temporary solutions can help, DIY repairs often fail or worsen the problem. For example:

• Don’t force a crown back onto a broken tooth.
• Don’t use household glue, which is toxic and damages the tooth.

Instead, contact an emergency dentist immediately. Our team in Orem, Utah, provides same-day appointments to reseat crowns or replace fillings securely.

5. Schedule an Emergency Dental Visit ASAP

Even if pain subsides, don’t postpone professional care. Exposed teeth can decay rapidly or shift out of alignment. Emergency dental restoration services ensure your tooth is protected with a durable, long-term solution.

Why Prompt Care Matters for Lost Restorations

Ignoring a lost crown or filling can lead to:

• Cracked or fractured teeth from uneven pressure.
• Infection due to bacteria entering the pulp.
• Costly repairs if the tooth becomes irreparable.

Canyon Gate Dental in Orem, Utah, uses advanced materials and techniques to restore your smile efficiently, often in a single visit.

FAQs About Lost Fillings and Crowns

Q1: How long can I wait to fix a lost crown?
A: Seek care within 24–48 hours. Delaying increases the risk of damage or infection.

Q2: Can I eat with a missing filling?
A: Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the affected side until it’s repaired.

Q3: How much does emergency crown repair cost?
A: Costs vary, but we offer affordable options and payment plans to fit your budget.

Q4: Do you offer same-day appointments?
A: Yes! Contact us immediately—we prioritize dental emergencies to relieve your pain fast.