When a crown comes off, the rule is simple: keep the crown safe, protect the tooth underneath, and see a dentist promptly. A crown that has come off in one piece can often be re-cemented if the underlying tooth is sound, so how you handle the next day or two makes a real difference. Try not to panic; this is a common and usually straightforward problem.
Key takeaways
- Keep the crown; it can often be re-cemented if the tooth beneath is healthy.
- Protect the exposed tooth and avoid chewing on that side.
- Do not use household or superglue to reattach it.
- See a dentist promptly, ideally within a day or two.
- Get urgent care if there is significant pain, swelling or bleeding.
Immediate steps
Retrieve the crown and rinse it gently. Store it somewhere safe, such as a small container, and bring it to your appointment. Rinse your mouth with warm water and keep the exposed tooth clean by brushing gently. The tooth underneath, called the abutment, may feel rough or sensitive because it has been shaped down. Avoid very hot, cold or sweet foods on that side, and chew elsewhere to protect the tooth.
Temporary measures and what to avoid
Pharmacies sell temporary dental cement that can hold a crown in place for a short time until you see a dentist. This is only a stopgap, not a repair. Never use household glue or superglue, which are toxic, can damage the tooth, and make it much harder for the dentist to reseat the crown properly. If you cannot keep the crown in, it is often safer to store it and leave the tooth uncovered but clean rather than force the crown back on unevenly.
When to seek urgent care
Book urgent care if you have strong or throbbing pain, swelling, bleeding, or if the tooth underneath is badly broken. These can indicate decay under the crown or nerve involvement that needs prompt attention. Our guide on handling a dental emergency covers the red flags.
Why crowns come off
A crown usually comes off for one of a few reasons: the cement holding it has weakened over time, decay has developed on the tooth underneath, or the tooth has fractured. Which of these it is affects the fix. If the tooth is healthy, re-cementing may be all that is needed. If there is new decay or a fracture, the tooth may need treatment first, and sometimes a new crown. Our guide to crown costs outlines the general ranges involved.
Re-cement, remake or something else
| Finding | Likely approach |
|---|---|
| Healthy tooth, intact crown | Re-cement the existing crown |
| Decay under the crown | Treat decay, then re-cement or remake |
| Fractured tooth | Repair or rebuild before a new crown |
| Damaged or lost crown | New crown made |
Frequently asked questions
Can I glue my crown back in?
Not with household glue. A temporary dental cement from a pharmacy can hold it briefly, but only a dentist can reattach it properly and check the tooth underneath.
How long can I leave a crown off?
Aim to see a dentist within a day or two. The longer the prepared tooth is exposed, the more it can be sensitive, shift slightly, or decay.
Does a lost crown hurt?
It can be sensitive because the tooth underneath is exposed, but it is not always painful. Significant pain suggests the tooth needs prompt attention.
Will I need a whole new crown?
Not always. If the crown and tooth are both sound, re-cementing is common. A new crown is needed if the old one is damaged or the tooth has changed. See our guide comparing fillings, onlays and crowns.
What to do next
Keep the crown, protect the tooth, and book promptly for the best chance of a simple re-cement. You can view current options on our offers page, or read our companion guide on a lost filling.
