Broken Crown or Cracked Tooth in Sunnyvale: What to Do Next

A crown that suddenly comes loose while eating, or a tooth that snaps on something hard, is unsettling but usually manageable. For Sunnyvale patients, this article covers the most common restoration problems, what to do in the moment, how urgent each one is, and the repair options we will talk through when you come in.

If a crown has come off

Crowns come loose for a few reasons: the cement underneath has worn away, the tooth beneath has developed new decay, or a sticky food pulled it off. The crown itself is often intact.

• Keep the crown. Rinse it and store it in a small container or bag. It can often be reused.
• Look at the tooth. The part left is usually small and may be sensitive to cold air or drinks.
• Protect it. Avoid chewing on that side. Keep the area clean by brushing gently.
• Do not use household glue. Superglue and similar products can damage the tooth and the crown and make reseating harder.

Pharmacy dental cement is available as a very short-term measure to hold a crown in place, but it is not a substitute for a visit. Call within a day or two. Leaving the tooth uncovered for longer lets it shift and can allow decay to progress.

If a crown has cracked or chipped

Porcelain can chip, particularly on crowns that face heavy biting forces or night-time grinding. A small chip at the edge may be smoothed or repaired. A larger crack, or a crown that moves when you press on it, usually needs replacing. If there is no pain, a visit within a few days is appropriate. Pain when biting, or sensitivity that lingers, suggests the tooth beneath is involved and moves it higher on the list.

If a natural tooth has broken

Rinse with warm water, save any pieces, and apply a cold compress to the cheek if there is swelling. Look at the break:

• A small chip with no pain can usually wait a day or two
• A larger break, a sharp edge cutting the tongue, or pain when biting should be seen soon
• A pink or red spot in the centre means the nerve is exposed, and you should call the same day

Our article on what to do after breaking a tooth covers first steps in more detail.

When it becomes urgent

Call the same day if the tooth under a lost crown is very painful, if there is swelling in the gum or face, or if the nerve appears exposed. Go to an emergency room if swelling is spreading rapidly, you are having difficulty breathing or swallowing, or you have a high fever. Our dental emergency triage guide explains the difference.

Managing discomfort until your visit

• An over-the-counter pain reliever taken as the label directs, if it is safe for you
• Room-temperature food and drinks to reduce sensitivity
• Dental wax or sugar-free gum over a sharp edge
• Toothpaste for sensitive teeth dabbed onto an exposed tooth

How the repair usually goes

When a crown comes off intact and the tooth beneath is healthy, it can often be cleaned and recemented at one short visit. If there is new decay, that is treated first. When the crown is damaged or no longer fits, a new one is made.

For many teeth, a same-day crown can be designed, made and fitted at a single appointment, which avoids a temporary crown and a second visit. Front teeth with a small chip may be repaired with bonding instead.

If the break reaches deep into the tooth, the nerve may need treatment before a new crown goes on. And when a tooth cannot be saved, we will discuss replacement options, including a single implant.

Why crowns and teeth break

Grinding and clenching are common causes, often without people being aware of them. Chewing ice, hard sweets or pens places concentrated force on a small area. Old, large fillings can leave remaining tooth walls weak. If we see signs of grinding, a night guard is worth considering to protect both natural teeth and restorations.

Getting it looked at

Eclat Dental Studio is in Mountain View on Showers Drive, reached from Sunnyvale along Central Expressway or El Camino Real. If a crown has come off or a tooth has broken, bring the pieces and call (650) 917-8348. We will advise you on how quickly you need to be seen and arrange a visit.