While dental crowns are designed to be extremely durable, it is possible for one of these crowns to come off either as the result of oral trauma or due to aging adhesives. If your dental crown comes off, you will need to see your dentist as soon as possible to have this crown reattached properly. Unfortunately, it may not always be possible to drop what you are doing and head to your dentist's office. You may also find that it takes a few days for your dentist to be able to get you in. In these situations, you will need to temporarily reattach the crown yourself. This step-by-step guide can help you to accomplish this task.

What You Will Need

• Warm Water
• Soft Bristled Toothbrush
• Dental Cement 

Step 1: Clean Entire Crown

The last thing you want is to have food particles or bacteria trapped inside your crown once it has been reattached. That is why you will need to take the time to carefully clean both the inside and outside of your dental crown before it can be reattached. This should be done using some warm water and a soft toothbrush in order to avoid damaging the crown in any way. If you will be cleaning your crown over the sink, be sure to place a drain stopper in the sink before you begin in order to ensure your crown is not flushed down the drain if you accidentally drop it. 

Step 2: Clean Your Tooth

In addition to cleaning your crown, you will also need to clean your natural tooth and the surrounding gums. Since natural teeth are filed down in order to fit a dental crown on top, you may find that your tooth feels a bit rugged or sharp. This is nothing to be concerned with, just be sure to use care when cleaning the tooth in order to prevent the tooth from breaking. This is an important part of making sure your dental crown fits properly. 

Step 3: Use Dental Cement To Attach Crown

Once you have prepped both your tooth and your crown, you will need to use dental cement to hold the crown in place. This temporary adhesive can be purchased at most stores that offer oral care products. Using the tool included with your dental cement, place a small amount of the adhesive into the crown. Position the crown over your tooth and firmly bite down until the crown is fully seated on your tooth. If any cement squeezes out from beneath the crown, use a wet washcloth or cotton swab to wipe this excess material away. Be sure to allow ample time for the adhesive to dry before eating or drinking. 

For more information or for assistance, look to a local practice such as Rabel Family Dentistry.