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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Lost Filling or Crown Repair in Tillsonburg
A filling or crown that falls out leaves the tooth exposed. How to protect it, what to keep and how Tillsonburg patients can arrange a repair.
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Every dental service for Tillsonburg patientsProtect the exposed tooth
A missing filling or crown leaves the tooth vulnerable.
Fillings and crowns can come loose because of decay underneath, wear, a crack, sticky foods or simply age. The tooth may feel sharp, sensitive to temperature or uncomfortable when chewing, though sometimes there is little discomfort at all. Even without pain, the exposed tooth is more at risk of breaking or decaying.
If you are in Tillsonburg when a filling or crown comes out, call our Port Dover office to describe what happened. The team can advise on how soon you should be seen and how to protect the tooth until your appointment.
First steps
A few steps can help until you are seen.
Keeping the crown safe
If a crown has come off, keep it in a clean container and bring it to the appointment. Do not throw it away, as the dentist may be able to reuse it. If a filling has fallen out, it usually cannot be reused, but noting which tooth it came from helps. Rinse the mouth gently with warm water.
Protecting the tooth temporarily
Temporary dental cement from a pharmacy may help cover the exposed area or hold a crown in place briefly, but only if you can do so safely. Do not use household glue. Avoid chewing on that side and steer clear of very hot, cold or sweet foods if the tooth is sensitive.
Judging urgency
Symptoms help determine timing.
When to seek prompt care
Pain, swelling, a broken tooth underneath or a sharp edge cutting your tongue suggest you should be seen soon. Call the office and describe the symptoms. If swelling spreads or you have trouble breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical care instead of waiting for a dental appointment.
When it can be scheduled
If there is no pain and the tooth seems intact, it may be possible to schedule a visit in the near future. Still, do not leave it too long, as the exposed tooth can weaken or decay. Ask the team how soon is appropriate and plan the trip from Tillsonburg accordingly.
Repair options
The dentist examines why it came out.
Recementing or replacing a crown
If the crown and tooth are in good condition, the dentist may clean and recement the crown. If there is decay underneath or the crown is damaged, a new crown may be needed. X-rays may be taken to check the tooth. Ask about the options and how each would protect the tooth long term.
Replacing a lost filling
A lost filling is usually replaced after the dentist checks for decay or cracks. If the remaining tooth is weak, a larger restoration such as an onlay or crown might be suggested. Understanding why the filling came out can help prevent the same problem from happening again.
Preventing problems
Good habits help repairs last.
Caring for the repaired tooth
After repair, follow instructions about eating and avoid sticky foods for the advised time. Brush and clean between teeth carefully, paying attention to the edges of the restoration. Contact the Port Dover office if sensitivity persists or the bite feels uneven once any freezing wears off.
Reducing the risk of future loss
Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor older fillings and crowns and spot wear or decay before they fail. If you grind your teeth, a night guard may help protect them. Avoid chewing ice, hard candy and sticky caramels, which can loosen or damage restorations.
Planning your appointment
Call before leaving Tillsonburg.
Phone our Port Dover office to explain which filling or crown came out and whether you have pain. The team will advise on how soon to come in.
Bring the crown in a container if you have it, and mention any symptoms or recent dental work on that tooth.
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 crown be put back on?
Often, if the crown and the tooth underneath are in good condition. The dentist will clean and examine both before deciding. If there is decay or damage, a new crown may be recommended.
Is a lost filling an emergency?
It depends on symptoms. Pain, swelling or a broken tooth need prompt care. If there is no discomfort, schedule a visit soon, as the exposed tooth is at risk of further damage.
Can I use glue to reattach my crown?
No. Household glues are not safe for use in the mouth and can damage the crown or tooth. Pharmacy temporary dental cement may be used carefully until you are seen.
Why did my filling fall out?
Common reasons include decay underneath, wear, cracks, biting hard or sticky foods and the age of the filling. The dentist will examine the tooth to understand the cause and recommend a suitable repair.
What if the tooth hurts after the crown comes off?
Sensitivity is common when the inner tooth is exposed. Avoid hot, cold and sweet foods, and take pain relief if safe. Contact the office for advice, especially if pain is severe or swelling appears.
Restorations that may follow
Dental Emergencies →Dental Crowns →
Crowns protect teeth weakened by decay, cracks or large fillings. Materials, the two-stage process and long-term care, explained for Tillsonburg patients.
Composite Fillings →
Tooth-coloured composite repairs many cavities in one visit. When it suits a tooth, what to expect and how Tillsonburg patients can care for it.