Smile ArtDr. Jaime Lee, DDSCall Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee on (206) 325-7200
A single dental crown resting in a small clear case on a white cloth

Lost or Broken Crown Help in Seattle

A crown can loosen when the cement wears out, break after years of chewing, or come off with something sticky. Temporary crowns are made to come off more easily. Dr. Jaime Lee evaluates the crown and the tooth beneath it at Smile Art on First Hill.

Call (206) 325-7200

What should I do if my crown falls off?

Keep the crown and bring it to your visit, since the tooth underneath may be sensitive or easier to damage while it is uncovered. Call (206) 325-7200 so our team can schedule you as soon as the same day. Avoid household glues, which can damage the crown and the tooth.

If swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow, or bleeding will not stop, call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.

What can I do until I see Dr. Lee?

For first-aid steps, we share the American Dental Association's guidance, quoted word for word:

"When you have a dental emergency, it's important to visit your dentist or an emergency room as soon as possible."

Source: American Dental Association, MouthHealthy, "Dental Emergencies".

Why do crowns come off?

The cement under a crown can wear away over many years, and decay at the edge of the crown can loosen it. Sticky foods such as caramel or taffy can pull a loose crown free. A temporary crown, made to be removed later, comes off more easily by design.

What happens after the crown is fixed?

If the crown is re-cemented, Dr. Lee checks your bite so the tooth feels even. If a new crown is needed, she explains the steps and timing, and protects the tooth in the meantime.

A single dental crown in a small clear container on a clinic counter

Can my crown be put back on?

Dr. Lee examines the crown and the tooth to see whether the crown still fits and the tooth is healthy. If both are sound, the crown may be re-cemented; if the crown is damaged or the tooth has changed, she explains the options for a new crown. Same-day crowns may be an option for some teeth.

Related care: Dental crowns, Same-day crowns.

How much does an emergency visit cost?

The cost depends on the exam, any X-rays, and the treatment the tooth needs. Smile Art accepts all PPO dental plans, and our team will gladly verify your benefits before your appointment. For out-of-pocket expenses, we offer straightforward financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, and LendingClub.

PPO insurance

Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.

Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.

Coverage depends on the treatment provided and your individual PPO plan.

Third-party financing

Available through:

  • CareCredit
  • Cherry
  • LendingClub

Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.

Frequently asked questions

Should I bring my crown?

Yes. Dr. Lee checks whether it can be reused.

My temporary crown came off. Is that urgent?

Call the office so the tooth can be covered again. Temporary crowns are designed to come off more easily than permanent ones.

Can a crown placed by another dentist be fixed here?

Dr. Lee evaluates the crown and tooth and explains your options, wherever the crown was made.

Why did my crown come loose?

Cement can wear over time, and decay or a change in the tooth underneath can also loosen a crown.

See all emergency concerns

Where is our Seattle dental office?

Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104

HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm

The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.

Call (206) 325-7200