Lost Crown, Inlay or Onlay Care in Fortitude Valley
When a crown, inlay or onlay comes loose, the tooth underneath can feel sensitive, sharp or unfamiliar. While it is not always painful, a missing restoration leaves the tooth vulnerable to damage and decay. At Precision Dental, we can assess the tooth promptly and discuss whether your restoration can be re-cemented or needs replacing.
What Are Crowns, Inlays and Onlays?
A crown is a cap that covers the entire visible part of a tooth. An inlay fits within the grooves of a back tooth's chewing surface, while an onlay extends to cover one or more of the tooth's cusps. All three are custom-made restorations bonded or cemented to the tooth.
Restorations can come loose for several reasons, including decay developing beneath them, wear of the cement over time, biting on hard or sticky foods, grinding, or a fracture of the underlying tooth.
When to Seek Care
Please call us as soon as you can if your restoration has come out. Book promptly if:
- The tooth is sensitive to hot, cold or air
- You have pain or discomfort
- The tooth feels sharp or has broken
- You swallowed or lost the restoration
- The tooth has had root canal therapy, as it may be more fragile
What to Do Before Your Appointment
Keep the restoration safe in a small container and bring it with you. Gently clean the tooth by brushing, and avoid chewing on that side. A small amount of dental wax or temporary dental cement from a pharmacy can protect a sensitive tooth for a short time, but do not use household glue. Avoid sticky, hard or very hot or cold foods.
What Happens at Your Appointment
We examine the tooth and your restoration and take digital X-rays to check for decay or fractures beneath it. If the tooth and restoration are both in good condition, we clean them and re-cement the restoration in place. If there is decay, damage, or the restoration no longer fits well, a replacement may be needed. With our CEREC system, many new crowns, inlays and onlays can be designed, milled and fitted during one visit. If the tooth is severely damaged, we explain other options, such as root canal therapy or replacement of the tooth.
Aftercare and Ongoing Care
Avoid chewing on the tooth until any anaesthetic has worn off, and avoid sticky or very hard foods for the first 24 hours. Brush and clean between your teeth carefully around the restoration each day. If you grind your teeth, a night splint may help protect your restorations. Regular check-ups help us monitor restoration edges for early signs of decay or wear.
Why Choose Precision Dental for a Lost Restoration
Our in-house CEREC technology means many replacement restorations can be completed in a single visit, without a temporary. We assess the tooth carefully so the restoration is placed on a healthy foundation.
Fees, Health Funds and Payment Options
The cost of your treatment depends on your individual needs. After your examination, we talk you through your options and the expected fees before any treatment begins. We accept most major health funds, process claims on the spot through HICAPS and are a preferred provider for Bupa, HCF and CBHS. Payment plans are available through DentiCare for eligible patients, subject to terms and conditions. You can learn more on our Prices and Payment Options page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Often, yes, if the crown and the tooth underneath are in good condition. We will check both before re-cementing it.
Swallowed restorations usually pass without harm. If you have difficulty breathing or coughing, seek medical care immediately. We can make a replacement.
Please do not use household glue, as it can damage the tooth and make proper repair difficult. A temporary pharmacy cement may be used briefly.
Common causes include decay beneath the crown, worn cement, biting on sticky foods and grinding.
It is not always urgent, but the tooth is vulnerable without it. It is best to be seen within a day or two, or sooner if you have pain.
In many cases, yes. Our CEREC system allows many onlays to be made and fitted in a single appointment.
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Book Your Visit at Precision Dental
Whether you are due for a routine visit or ready to talk through a treatment you have been considering, our Fortitude Valley team would be glad to welcome you. Call us on (07) 3852 1160 or book online, and we will find a time that suits you.
The information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for personalised advice from a registered dental practitioner. Individual needs, experiences and results vary.
