A broken dental crown might not always feel painful right away — but it is still a dental emergency that needs prompt attention. A damaged crown leaves the underlying tooth exposed, vulnerable to infection, fracture, and sensitivity, even if symptoms seem mild at first.
In this guide, we'll explain what it means when a dental crown breaks, what causes it, and what you should do immediately to protect your tooth. We'll also cover how dentists assess and treat a broken crown, what risks come with delaying care, and how to prevent further damage. While not every broken crown causes immediate pain, all of them require professional evaluation to avoid long-term complications and preserve the health of your tooth.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a damaged or treated tooth to restore its strength, shape, and function.
Why Crowns Are Used
- • Protect weakened teeth
- • Restore heavily filled or cracked teeth
- • Cover teeth after root canal treatment
- • Improve appearance and alignment
What Causes a Dental Crown to Break?
Common Causes
- • Biting on hard foods or objects
- • Teeth grinding or clenching
- • Trauma or impact to the mouth
- • Wear and tear over time
Crowns are durable, but they're not indestructible.
Why a Broken Crown Needs Immediate Attention
Exposed Tooth Risks
When the crown breaks, the underlying tooth may be exposed, increasing the risk of:
- • Infection
- • Tooth fracture
- • Severe sensitivity
- • Further decay
Pain May Be Delayed
⚠️ Damage beneath the crown may not be obvious at first — which is why prompt dental evaluation is essential.
What to Do Immediately If Your Crown Breaks
Step-by-Step Guidance
- • Rinse your mouth gently with warm water.
- • Avoid chewing on that side.
- • If sharp edges are present, cover them with dental wax.
- • Save any broken crown pieces if possible.
- • Contact your dentist as soon as possible.
How Dentists Treat a Broken Dental Crown
Assessment and Imaging
Your dentist will examine the tooth and may take X-rays to check for underlying damage.
Repair or Replacement
Depending on the damage, your dentist may:
- • Re-cement the crown
- • Repair minor chips
- • Replace the crown entirely
People Also Ask — Broken Crown FAQs
Is a broken crown a dental emergency?
Yes — it should be assessed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Can I leave a broken crown untreated?
No — delaying care increases the risk of infection and tooth loss.
Does a broken crown always need replacement?
Not always — small chips may be repaired, but larger breaks usually require replacement.
Can I eat with a broken crown?
It's best to avoid chewing on that side until it's repaired.
Dealing With a Broken Dental Crown?
If your crown has chipped, cracked, or fallen off, don't wait.