Dec 3, 2025
Temporary Crown Fell Off on the Weekend? Here's What to Do
By Dr. Leslie Patrick, DMD
It’s the classic law of bad timing: you’re enjoying a Friday night dinner or a Sunday brunch, and suddenly you feel something loose in your mouth. Your temporary crown has come off. Since dental offices are typically closed on weekends, panic can easily set in. Is my tooth ruined? Is this an emergency? How do I fix this myself?
At Smyrna Dental Studio, we want to reassure you: this is a very common occurrence and is rarely a true dental emergency. Temporary crowns are attached with temporary cement specifically so they can be easily removed later. While inconvenient, you can manage this situation at home. This guide will walk you through exactly what to do to protect your tooth and your comfort until you can see us.
Step 1: Inspect and Clean the Crown
If you have the crown, you are already ahead of the game.
Remove it from your mouth so you don't accidentally swallow it.
Check to see if your natural tooth broke off inside it (if it looks hollow, that's good!).
Gently rinse the crown with warm water and let it air dry.
Step 2: Manage Sensitivity and Protect the Tooth
Without the crown, your prepared tooth is exposed. It might be sensitive to cold air or water because the enamel layer has been removed.
Avoid extreme temperatures: Skip the ice water or hot coffee if it causes zingers.
Chew carefully: Do not chew on that side of your mouth. Food can get stuck in the gums or damage the exposed tooth structure.
Keep it clean: Continue to brush gently, but be very careful flossing around the exposed tooth.
Step 3: The DIY Re-Cementing Guide (Weekend Only)
If the tooth is sensitive or you are worried about appearance, you can temporarily put the crown back on yourself.
Buy Temporary Cement: Go to a pharmacy and look for a temporary dental cement kit (like Dentemp or Recapit). If you can't find that, denture adhesive or even a dab of toothpaste works well in a pinch.
Test the Fit: Before adding glue, try putting the crown back on to make sure you know which way it fits. It should slide on comfortably. Never force it.
Apply and Seat: Put a small dot of cement/adhesive inside the crown. Place it on the tooth and bite down gently on a dry washcloth to seat it.
Clean Excess: Wipe away any extra cement from your gums.
WARNING: NEVER use Superglue, Krazy Glue, or any household adhesive. These are toxic and can damage the tooth or the crown permanently, turning a small fix into a big problem.
FAQs: Your Temporary Crown Questions
Is it okay to leave the crown off until Monday?
If you are not in pain and the tooth is not in a visible area (like a back molar), it is usually fine to leave the crown off for a day or two. Keep the tooth clean and avoid chewing on it. If the tooth is sensitive, try the DIY re-cementing steps above.
I lost the temporary crown or swallowed it. Now what?
If you swallowed it, don't worry, it will pass naturally. If you lost it, you can cover the sensitive tooth with a piece of dental wax (found in the braces aisle at the drugstore) to protect your tongue and the tooth edge. Call us to let us know you need a new temporary made.
Is this a dental emergency? Do I need to call the after-hours line?
Usually, no. Unless you are in severe pain or the tooth underneath is fractured and bleeding, a lost temporary crown is not a critical emergency. You can call our office and leave a voicemail to get an appointment for the next business day.
Will my teeth shift if the crown is off for a few days?
It takes a while for teeth to shift significantly. Being without the crown for a weekend (2-3 days) typically won't cause enough movement to affect the fit of your final permanent crown. However, waiting weeks can cause shifting, so don't delay calling us.
Stay Calm, We’ve Got You Covered
Losing a temporary crown is a nuisance, but it’s a manageable one. By keeping the area clean and using temporary adhesives if needed, you can get through the weekend comfortably. Remember, this is just a temporary phase on the way to your permanent, beautiful restoration.
Call Smyrna Dental Studio and leave us a message. We will prioritize getting you back in the chair to re-cement your crown or place your permanent one as soon as we open!
