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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Lost Filling or Crown Repair in Nixon
A filling or crown that falls out leaves a tooth exposed. Nixon patients can learn what to do with it, how to protect the tooth and when to call us.
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Serving patients from Nixon and the surrounding countryside at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for NixonProtect the exposed tooth
A lost restoration needs attention, even when it does not hurt.
Fillings and crowns can come loose because of new decay underneath, wear over the years, a hard bite or sticky foods. When one falls out, the tooth beneath may be sensitive, sharp or more vulnerable to breaking. Even if there is no pain, an exposed tooth is at risk, and timely repair often keeps treatment simpler.
If you are in Nixon and have lost a filling or crown, call our Port Dover office to describe what happened. The team will discuss how soon you should come in and how to protect the tooth until then. Keep a lost crown safe, since it can sometimes be reused.
Right away
A few simple steps reduce the risk of further damage.
Save the crown or pieces
If a crown comes off, rinse it gently and store it in a small, clean container. Do not throw it away, even if it looks damaged, since the dentist may be able to recement it. Small fragments of filling are usually not reusable but can be brought along. Note whether you swallowed anything, and mention it when you call.
Protect the tooth
Rinse your mouth gently with warm water. Avoid chewing on that side and steer clear of very hot, cold or sweet foods if the tooth is sensitive. Sugar-free gum or dental wax can cover a sharp edge temporarily. Some pharmacies sell temporary filling material, which may help short term, but follow the instructions carefully and see the dentist soon.
What not to do
Some quick fixes can create bigger problems.
Household glues and adhesives
Do not use household glue, super glue or other non-dental adhesives to reattach a crown. They can damage the tooth, irritate the gums and make it harder for the dentist to clean and refit the crown properly. If you place a crown back temporarily with a pharmacy product, make sure it sits correctly and do not bite hard on it.
Waiting too long
Leaving a tooth exposed for weeks increases the chance of further decay, fracture or shifting of neighbouring teeth. A crown that has been out too long may no longer fit if the tooth moves. Even if the tooth feels fine, arrange an appointment soon. Tell the team if you notice pain, swelling or a change in your bite.
At the office
The dentist finds out why the restoration failed.
Checking why it came out
The dentist will examine the tooth and, often, take an X-ray to look for decay, cracks or other problems that caused the restoration to fail. Understanding the cause helps prevent it from happening again. If the tooth has become painful, the dentist will check whether the nerve is affected and explain any additional treatment that might be needed.
Repair or replacement
If the tooth and crown are both in good condition, the crown may be cleaned and recemented. If decay is present or the crown is damaged, a new filling, crown or other restoration may be recommended. Sometimes a temporary is placed while a permanent restoration is made. The dentist will explain the options so you can choose.
Preventing a repeat
Small habits help restorations last longer.
Protecting restorations
Avoid chewing ice, hard candy and very sticky foods like toffee, which can pull at restorations. If you grind or clench, a night guard may help protect your teeth and dental work. Brush and clean between your teeth daily to prevent new decay at the edges. Report any roughness, looseness or sensitivity promptly rather than waiting for it to fall out.
Regular checkups
Routine dental exams allow the dentist to check older fillings and crowns for wear or leaks before they fail. Replacing a worn restoration on schedule is often simpler than dealing with one that breaks unexpectedly. Ask the dentist about the condition of your existing restorations so you can plan any future work sensibly and on your own schedule.
Planning your appointment
Plan your repair from Nixon.
Call our Port Dover office when a filling or crown comes out. Describe any pain, sensitivity or damage so the team can advise on timing, and bring the crown with you if you have it.
Mention if the tooth has had root canal treatment, since that history can affect how the dentist approaches the repair.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Lost filling and crown questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Can my old crown be put back on?
Often, if the crown and tooth are in good condition. The dentist will clean both, check for decay and assess the fit. If the crown is damaged or the tooth has changed, a new crown may be needed.
Is a lost filling an emergency?
It is usually not life-threatening, but it should be repaired soon to protect the tooth. If you have severe pain, swelling or a fever, call the office promptly. Seek emergency care for breathing or swallowing difficulty.
Why did my filling fall out?
Common reasons include new decay around the filling, wear over time, cracks in the tooth or biting something hard or sticky. The dentist will examine the tooth to find the cause and recommend the best repair.
Can I use a temporary filling kit from the pharmacy?
A pharmacy kit may help protect the tooth for a short time, but it is not a permanent fix. Follow the instructions carefully and arrange to see the dentist as soon as possible for a proper repair.
What if I swallowed my crown or filling?
Small pieces usually pass without problems, but tell the dentist. If you have coughing, chest pain or difficulty breathing after swallowing something, seek medical attention immediately, as it may have entered the airway rather than the stomach.
Restorations that may replace it
Dental Emergencies →Dental Crowns →
A crown covers and strengthens a weakened tooth. Nixon patients can learn when crowns are advised, how the two-visit process works and how to keep one lasting.
Composite Fillings →
Composite fillings repair decay with tooth-coloured material. Nixon patients can see how cavities are found, what the visit involves and how to care for it.