February 4, 2026 3 min read
Lost Filling or Crown? Here's What to Do Next
Quick steps if a filling falls out or a crown comes off, and how soon you should be seen.
A lost filling or crown isn't usually a 911-level emergency, but it shouldn't wait long either. Here's how to handle it.
If a crown falls off
- Save the crown. Don't throw it away.
- Rinse it gently with water.
- Avoid chewing on that side.
- Call us. We can often re-cement the crown the same day.
If a filling falls out
- Keep the area clean. Rinse after meals.
- Avoid very hot, very cold, or very sweet foods on that side.
- Call us to schedule a repair before the tooth becomes sensitive or breaks further.
Open dental work attracts decay quickly. Even if it doesn't hurt, get it sealed back up sooner rather than later.