From the Research
Swallowing a dental crown is generally not dangerous, and it will typically pass through your digestive system naturally within a few days without causing harm. If you accidentally swallow a crown, it is essential to contact your dentist to schedule a replacement crown as soon as possible. While the crown itself is not toxic, there is a small risk of the crown being aspirated (inhaled into the lungs) rather than swallowed, which would be a medical emergency requiring immediate attention, as noted in a study on aspiration and ingestion of dental instruments 1. Signs of aspiration include difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or chest pain. If you experience these symptoms after losing a crown, seek emergency medical care immediately.
To be cautious, monitor your stools for the passed crown, though recovering it is not necessary as it would not be reused. The main concern with swallowing a crown is the financial cost of replacement and the need to protect the exposed tooth until a new crown can be placed. According to a recent study on accidental ingestion of a long dental crown, if the crown is located in the proximal duodenum, it is recommended to retrieve it endoscopically if possible 2. However, if the crown has passed distal to the duodenum, it is likely to pass through the digestive system without causing harm, as reported in a case of accidental swallowing of a gold cast crown 3.
In rare cases, intestinal obstruction or perforation may occur, and it is crucial to seek medical attention if symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or constipation occur, as discussed in a study on evaluation and management of intestinal obstruction 4. The use of endoscopy and imaging techniques, such as CT scans, can help diagnose and treat any complications that may arise, as noted in a study on intestinal obstruction and perforation 5.
Key points to consider:
- Swallowing a dental crown is generally not dangerous
- Contact your dentist to schedule a replacement crown as soon as possible
- Monitor for signs of aspiration, such as difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Seek emergency medical care if symptoms of aspiration or intestinal obstruction occur
- Endoscopy and imaging techniques can help diagnose and treat any complications that may arise, as discussed in studies 2, 5, 1.