Lost Crown or Filling Emergency in Tucson, AZ

A crown or filling that falls out always seems to happen at the worst time. You are eating dinner, chewing gum, or biting into something sticky, and suddenly you feel something loose in your mouth. The tooth underneath feels rough, sensitive, and exposed.

While a lost crown or filling is not usually as painful as a toothache or abscess, it does need prompt attention. The tooth underneath was prepared (shaped down) to hold the restoration. Without it, the tooth structure is exposed to bacteria, temperature, and the forces of chewing. The longer it stays exposed, the higher the risk of decay, further breakage, or infection.

When you come in, Dr. Torres will check the condition of the tooth underneath. If the tooth is still healthy, we can often recement the original crown (bring it with you) or place a new temporary. If there is new decay or damage under where the old restoration sat, we will clean that up first.

For fillings that come out, we can usually replace them the same day with a new direct composite (tooth-colored) filling. For crowns, we may place a temporary crown while a permanent one is made, or recement the original if it still fits properly.

Cost depends on what is needed. Recementing an existing crown that still fits is straightforward and affordable. A new temporary crown costs more. A new permanent crown is the most expensive option. We always go over costs before we start.