08/11/2025
It sounds alarming—but in most cases, swallowing a dental crown isn’t dangerous. The crown usually travels safely through the digestive tract and exits naturally within a few days. However, it’s important to confirm that it wasn’t inhaled into the airway, which requires immediate medical attention.
If the crown has only been swallowed, stay calm—but act smart. Contact your dentist right away to protect the exposed tooth, which is now vulnerable to pain, infection, and damage. The lost crown can sometimes be reused if found intact and sterilized, but never attempt to glue it back yourself.
Most swallowed crowns are made of gold, porcelain, or zirconia—all inert materials that rarely cause harm inside the body. Still, imaging (X-ray or CT) may be advised if the object doesn’t pass or if symptoms like chest pain, abdominal pain, or breathing issues appear.
🔹 Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional dental advice.