Lost Filling or Crown: What to Do Today and How Soon You Should Be Seen (Burnaby)
- Gentle Dental Burnaby
- May 11
- 4 min read
Losing a filling or crown is one of those dental problems that feels small until the tooth starts reacting. The exposed area can become sensitive fast, food can get trapped easily, and the tooth can chip further if you keep chewing on it.
This guide covers what to do today, what to avoid, and when it’s urgent.
If you’re in Burnaby and you’ve lost a filling or crown, you can book an appointment at Gentle Dental Burnaby
Quick answer
If a filling or crown falls out, keep the area clean, avoid chewing on that side, and book an appointment soon. If you have significant pain, swelling, or the tooth is cracked, treat it as urgent and call the clinic.
First: what’s the difference between a lost filling and a lost crown?
Filling lost: part of the tooth is now exposed. Sensitivity is common, especially to cold and pressure.
Crown lost: the “cap” covering the tooth has come off. The tooth underneath might be sensitive or fragile, and the crown may be reusable depending on the situation.
Either way, the goal is the same: protect the tooth and get it assessed before it worsens.
What to do today (step-by-step)
1) Keep the area clean (gently)
Brush carefully around the tooth.
Floss gently to remove trapped food.
Rinse with warm salt water if the gum feels irritated.
Avoid aggressive poking or “digging” around the tooth. You can irritate the gum and make the area more sensitive.
2) Don’t chew on that side
This is the biggest mistake people make: “It’s fine, I’ll just avoid it.” Then a hard bite later, the tooth chips or cracks.
Stick to softer foods and chew on the other side.
3) If the crown came off, save it
Rinse it gently with water (don’t scrub).
Store it in a clean container.
Bring it with you to the appointment.
Sometimes a crown can be re-cemented. Sometimes it can’t. But don’t lose it.
4) Temporary dental cement can help (optional)
If you’re uncomfortable and you can’t be seen immediately, pharmacies often carry temporary dental cement.
A few rules:
This is a short-term patch, not a fix.
Don’t force anything into place if it hurts.
Avoid using superglue or household adhesives. They can damage the tooth and gum tissue.
If you’re unsure, call the clinic and ask what’s appropriate for your case.
What NOT to do (common mistakes)
Avoid these, because they’re what turns a simple fix into a bigger problem:
Don’t chew hard foods on that side (nuts, crusty bread, hard candy, ice).
Don’t ignore increasing sensitivity hoping it “settles.” It usually doesn’t.
Don’t use superglue or DIY adhesives.
Don’t keep “testing” the tooth by biting to see if it hurts.
Safe pain relief (what usually helps)
If you’re feeling sensitivity or discomfort:
Avoid very cold or very hot drinks on that side.
Use lukewarm water for rinsing.
If safe for you, use over-the-counter pain relief as directed.
A cold compress on the cheek can help if the area feels inflamed.
If you have severe pain that’s escalating, don’t rely on home relief. Get assessed.
How soon should you be seen?
Here’s a practical rule of thumb.
Book within 24–48 hours if:
you have sensitivity to cold/air
food keeps getting trapped
the tooth feels rough or sharp
you can’t comfortably chew on that side
Same-day or urgent assessment if:
pain is strong or worsening
you have swelling in the gum/face
the tooth is cracked or broken
you have a bad taste/drainage
you feel feverish or unwell
If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, seek urgent medical care.
What happens at the clinic
A lost filling or crown appointment is usually straightforward:
Assessment: what came out, when, symptoms
Exam + X-rays if needed
Identify whether the tooth is stable, decayed, cracked, or irritated
Treatment plan:
replace the filling
re-cement or replace the crown
address underlying decay or bite issues if needed
The goal is to stabilize the tooth and prevent the problem from escalating.
Will you need a new filling or a new crown?
It depends on why it came out.
Common reasons include:
The filling or cement failed over time
decay developed underneath
The tooth structure changed (tiny cracks)
bite pressure or grinding loosened it
The appointment will clarify whether it’s a quick replacement or whether the tooth needs more protection.
When to call Gentle Dental Burnaby
If you’ve lost a filling or crown and you’re in Burnaby, it’s worth getting assessed early.
📍 4980 Kingsway #111, Burnaby, BC
📞 (604) 434-3020📅
Book online: https://burnabygentledental.oralhealth.app/book/
FAQ
Can I wait a week if my filling fell out?
If there’s sensitivity, a sharp edge, or food trapping, waiting can make it worse. It’s better to book sooner.
My crown fell off, but it doesn’t hurt. Is it urgent?
It may not be an emergency, but the tooth underneath can be fragile. Book within a day or two.
Can I glue my crown back on?
Don’t use superglue. If needed, temporary dental cement is safer short-term. The best move is to bring the crown to the clinic.
Why does the tooth feel sensitive after a filling comes out?
The tooth’s inner layers may be exposed. Cold air, cold drinks, and chewing pressure can trigger sensitivity.
What if the tooth is sharp and cutting my tongue?
Avoid touching it and book an appointment soon. The clinic can smooth sharp edges and stabilize the tooth.
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