Table of Contents
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Temporary Crown Fell Off – What To Do
Immediate actions
- [ ] Stay calm — this is usually not an emergency
- [ ] Do not chew on that side of your mouth
- [ ] Check if the tooth is broken or bleeding
- [ ] Find the temporary crown if possible
Clean gently
- [ ] Rinse your mouth with warm water or salt water
- [ ] Rinse the crown (if found) with water only
- [ ] Do NOT use alcohol, peroxide, or cleaners
Contact the dentist
- [ ] Call your dentist as soon as possible
- [ ] Tell them: “My temporary crown came off”
- [ ] Ask if you can come in for re-cementing
- [ ] Note the date/time for your records
If you must reattach it yourself (temporary only)
Only do this if:
- [ ] The crown is intact
- [ ] The tooth is intact
- [ ] The crown fits without forcing
Safe temporary options (1–3 days max):
- [ ] Temporary dental cement (drugstore)
- [ ] Toothpaste (non-gel) – very short term
- [ ] Sugar-free denture adhesive
(See some options I've found, below.)
Steps:
- [ ] Place a small amount of cement/adhesive inside the crown
- [ ] Put the crown on the tooth
- [ ] Bite down gently to seat it
- [ ] Wipe away excess
- [ ] Avoid eating for 30–60 minutes
NEVER use
- [ ] Super glue / Krazy glue
- [ ] Household glue
- [ ] Epoxy or construction adhesive
These can damage the tooth and prevent proper permanent bonding.
When this is URGENT
Call same day if:
- [ ] The tooth is painful
- [ ] The tooth is cracked or broken
- [ ] Swelling, pus, or bad taste appears
- [ ] The crown will not stay on at all
- [ ] Your permanent crown appointment is more than a week away
How long is it safe to leave off?
| Time Uncovered | Risk Level |
|---|---|
| < 24 hours | Low |
| 2–3 days | Rising |
| > 1 week | Moderate risk |
| > 2 weeks | High risk (tooth may shift) |
Eating and care tips
- [ ] Eat on the opposite side only
- [ ] Avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods
- [ ] Avoid very hot or cold foods
- [ ] Brush gently in that area
- [ ] Use saltwater rinse for comfort
What to bring to the dentist
- [ ] The temporary crown (even if it won’t stay on)
- [ ] Notes of when it came off
- [ ] Any pain or symptoms
Temporary Adhesive Options I have found on Amazon
I have no experience with these and am not recommending them and I cannot be responsible for any issues you may have using them. Use at your own risk (but hopefully you'll get some benefit!). IMHO, I would try Dentemp first.
- https://www.amazon.com/Dentemp-Repair-Fillings-Loose-Strength/dp/B00NFUBV32/
Pack of 2, $8.95 as of 12/6/2025. Tomorrow delivery possible.
- https://www.amazon.com/DenTek-Temparin-Step-Filling-Treatment/dp/B00UB6UWUG/
$3.18 as of 12/6/2025. Two day delivery.
- https://www.amazon.com/Fixodent-Ultra-Hold-Dental-Adhesive/dp/B0787JNMXS/
$6.47 as of 12/6/2025. Tomorrow delivery possible. Note: this needs to be reapplied daily as the hold loosens after about 24 hours.
- Super Polygrip is NOT for temporary crowns.