Losing a dental filling or crown can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. When a filling or crown falls out, the underlying tooth may become sensitive to temperature, pressure, or air exposure.
Although this situation is common, it is important to have the tooth evaluated by a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
At Rockville Dental Arts, we treat dental emergencies such as lost fillings and crowns for patients throughout Rockville and Montgomery County.
📞 Call 301-424-2030 if you experience a dental emergency.
What Should You Do if a Filling or Crown Falls Out?
If a dental filling or crown falls out, keep the crown if possible, avoid chewing on that side of the mouth, and contact a dentist as soon as possible. Temporary dental cement from a pharmacy may protect the tooth until professional treatment is available.
Why Fillings or Crowns Fall Out
Dental restorations can last many years, but several factors can cause them to loosen or fall out.
Common causes include:
• tooth decay beneath the filling or crown
• normal wear over time
• trauma or biting hard foods
• weakened tooth structure
• cement breakdown
When a restoration comes loose, the tooth should be examined to determine whether it can be repaired or requires replacement.
You can learn more about treatment options on our page about dental crowns in Rockville.
What to Do Immediately After Losing a Crown or Filling
Taking the right steps can protect the tooth until you see a dentist.
1. Keep the Crown
If a crown has fallen out, store it safely and bring it with you to your dental appointment.
Sometimes the crown can be re-cemented if it remains intact.
2. Avoid Chewing on the Tooth
The exposed tooth may be fragile and sensitive. Try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
3. Use Temporary Dental Cement
Pharmacies often sell temporary dental cement that can protect the tooth temporarily.
This is only a short-term solution until a dentist can properly restore the tooth.
When a Crown May Need Replacement
In some cases, the original crown cannot be reused.
Replacement may be necessary if:
• the crown is cracked or damaged
• tooth decay has developed beneath the crown
• the underlying tooth structure has changed
Your dentist will determine whether the crown can be repaired or replaced.
If significant damage has occurred, alternative treatments such as dental implants may be recommended.
Emergency Dental Care in Rockville, MD
Rockville Dental Arts provides emergency dental treatment for patients experiencing:
• lost crowns
• missing fillings
• cracked teeth
• severe tooth pain
Our team uses modern diagnostic technology to quickly evaluate the tooth and restore function.
We treat patients throughout:
• Rockville
• Bethesda
• Potomac
• Gaithersburg
• Germantown
If you are experiencing pain or sensitivity after losing a filling or crown, you may need an emergency dentist in Rockville to restore the tooth quickly.
Schedule an Emergency Dental Appointment
If a crown or filling has fallen out, prompt treatment helps prevent further damage or infection.
📞 Call 301-424-2030
or schedule to review treatment options on our contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is losing a crown a dental emergency?
A lost crown should be evaluated quickly because the exposed tooth can become sensitive or damaged.
Can a crown be glued back on?
Sometimes the original crown can be re-cemented if it is intact and the tooth underneath is healthy.
Can a dentist replace a lost filling the same day?
In many cases a dentist can replace a filling during the same appointment.
What happens if you wait too long after losing a crown?
Delaying treatment can lead to tooth sensitivity, decay, or additional damage to the exposed tooth.