Dental Fillings And Crown Repair

If a dental filling fell out or crown came off, we understand it can be both alarming and uncomfortable. These restorations play a crucial role in protecting your teeth from further decay and maintaining your overall oral health. At our dental clinic in Vancouver, we understand the urgency of such situations and offer prompt, effective solutions to restore your smile and prevent additional complications.

Steps to Take If You Lose a Filling or Crown

1. Retrieve the Restoration: If possible, find the lost filling or crown and keep it safe to show your dentist.
2. Rinse Your Mouth: Gently rinse with warm water to clean the affected area.
3. Protect the Tooth: Apply dental cement (available over-the-counter) or sugar-free gum to the exposed area to shield it from debris and reduce sensitivity.
4. Avoid Certain Foods: Steer clear of hard, chewy, or sugary foods that could exacerbate the problem.
5. Schedule an Emergency Dental Appointment: Contact our Vancouver office immediately to arrange prompt care.

Several factors can lead to the dislodgement of a filling or crown:

• Decay: New decay can develop around or under the restoration, weakening its hold.
• Wear and Tear: Over time, chewing and biting can cause restorations to loosen.
• Trauma: Injury to the mouth from accidents or sports can dislodge restorations.
• Consumption of Hard or Sticky Foods: Foods like hard candies or sticky caramels can pull out or break fillings and crowns.

Delaying the repair of a lost filling or crown can lead to several issues:

• Tooth Sensitivity or Pain: Exposed dentin or nerves can cause discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
• Infection Risk: The exposed area is susceptible to bacterial infiltration, potentially leading to abscesses or more severe infections.
• Structural Damage: Without the protection of a restoration, the tooth is more prone to chipping, cracking, or further decay.
• Misalignment: Adjacent teeth may shift into the space left by a missing crown, affecting your bite and overall dental alignment.

Dental Fillings: Used to repair teeth affected by cavities or minor fractures, fillings restore the tooth's integrity and function. Materials commonly used include composite resin, amalgam, gold, and porcelain.

Dental Crowns: Also known as caps, crowns cover the entire visible portion of a damaged or decayed tooth, providing strength and improving appearance. They are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials.

At our Vancouver Emergency Dentist, we offer comprehensive emergency services for lost fillings and crowns:

Depending on the location and size of the cavity, we may replace the lost filling with materials such as composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain.

To minimize the risk of future issues, we provide guidance on maintaining oral hygiene and recommend regular dental check-ups.

To enhance the longevity of your dental restorations:

• 1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly to prevent decay.
  2. Regular Dental Visits: Routine check-ups allow us to monitor the condition of your restorations and address potential issues early.
  3. Be Mindful of Your Diet: Limit consumption of hard, sticky, or sugary foods that can damage restorations.
  4. Wear Protective Gear: If you engage in contact sports, use a mouthguard to protect your teeth from trauma.

• Prompt Appointments: We prioritize dental emergencies and strive to offer same-day appointments to address your needs swiftly.
• Experienced Team: Our skilled dentists have extensive experience in restorative dentistry, ensuring high-quality care.
• Advanced Technology: Utilizing the latest dental equipment and materials, we provide efficient and durable solutions.
• Patient-Centered Approach: We understand the stress associated with dental emergencies and are committed to delivering compassionate, personalized care.

Experiencing a lost filling or crown can be distressing, but timely intervention can prevent further complications. If you're in Vancouver and need emergency dental care, don't hesitate to contact us. Our dedicated team is here to restore your smile and ensure your oral health remains optimal.