Has your dental crown or filling suddenly come loose? You’re not alone, this must happen to thousands yearly. Our Cardiff clinic specialises in same-day repairs for lost fillings or crowns, often in under an hour.. Here are the big questions that usually arise during lost filling or crown;
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to do next and when to call an emergency dentist in Cardiff.
1. Lost Crown? Here’s Why It’s Usually an Emergency
A dental crown covers a damaged or weakened tooth entirely. When it falls out, your tooth is left exposed, which is very risky.
🔴 DO THIS IMMEDIATELY:
✔ Save the crown – If it’s intact, keep it clean and dry.
✔ Rinse your mouth – Use warm salt water to prevent infection.
✔ Avoid chewing on that side – The tooth underneath is fragile.
⚠️ Why It’s Urgent:
- The tooth underneath can crack without protection.
- Exposed nerves may cause sharp pain or sensitivity.
- Bacteria can enter, leading to infection or decay.
🚨 When to Call a Dentist ASAP:
- If the tooth hurts or feels sharp.
- If you see cracks or black spots (signs of decay).
“We can often reattach your crown the same day, so don’t wait too long if you have lost fillings or crowns!” – Emergency Dentist Cardiff
2. Lost Filling? It Depends…
Fillings repair small cavities, so losing one isn’t always an emergency, but it can be.
🟡 Signs You Need Quick Treatment:
✔ Pain when eating/drinking (especially hot or cold).
✔ A jagged edge that cuts your tongue or cheek.
✔ Visible decay (dark spots or holes in the tooth).
🟢 When You Can Wait (A Few Days):
- If there’s no pain and the filling is small.
- If you can avoid chewing on that side.
⚠️ Warning: Even if it doesn’t hurt, bacteria can sneak in. Book an appointment within a week.
3. Crown vs. Filling: Which Needs Faster Care?
| Issue | Pain Level | Risk of Damage | When to See a Dentist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lost Crown | High (exposed tooth) | Very high (tooth can break) | Within 24 hours |
| Lost Filling | Mild to moderate | Moderate (decay can spread) | Within 24-hours |
Note:
If your crown falls out, try slipping it back on (with dental cement from a pharmacy) as a temporary fix. Never use superglue! (It’s toxic and ruins the crown.)
4. “Can I Fix This Myself?” (Temporary Solutions)
While you should see a dentist soon, here’s how to protect your tooth at home:
✔ For a lost crown:
- Clean it gently with water.
- Use dental cement (from a pharmacy) to stick it back temporarily.
✔ For a lost filling:
- Cover the hole with sugar-free gum or dental wax.
- Avoid hot/cold drinks, they’ll cause pain!
🚫 Never Use: Superglue, household adhesives, or DIY hacks (they can poison you or damage the tooth further).
5. Need Same-Day Help in Cardiff? We’re Here!
At Emergency Walk-In Dentist Cardiff, we reattach crowns and replace fillings fast, often in one visit.
📞 Call us immediately if:
- You’re in severe pain.
- The tooth is sharp or cracked.
- You’re worried about infection.
“We offer emergency slots daily—no long waits!”
