What Happens If You Swallow a Crown?
Swallowing a crown, whether a dental crown or a decorative one, is a serious event requiring immediate attention. While the immediate consequences might not be immediately life-threatening, the potential long-term complications necessitate prompt medical intervention. This post will explore the potential outcomes and the necessary steps to take in such a situation.
What are the immediate effects of swallowing a crown?
The initial reaction to swallowing a crown largely depends on its size and material. Small, lightweight crowns might pass through the digestive system unnoticed, causing minimal discomfort. However, larger or oddly shaped crowns can become lodged in the esophagus or stomach, leading to:
- Choking: This is a serious immediate risk, especially if the crown is large enough to obstruct the airway. If choking occurs, immediate first aid is crucial.
- Discomfort and Pain: A feeling of something stuck in the throat or chest is common. Pain may vary depending on the crown's size, shape, and location.
- Nausea and Vomiting: The body's natural response to a foreign object in the digestive system.
What happens if the crown doesn't pass through?
If the crown doesn't pass naturally, several problems can arise:
- Esophageal Obstruction: A crown lodged in the esophagus can prevent food and liquids from passing, leading to dehydration and malnutrition. This is a medical emergency.
- Gastric Obstruction: Similar to esophageal obstruction, a crown trapped in the stomach can cause serious digestive issues.
- Bowel Obstruction: In rare cases, the crown might move further down the digestive tract and become lodged in the intestines, causing a bowel obstruction. This is also a serious medical condition requiring surgery.
- Perforation: Though less common, there’s a risk of the crown puncturing the esophagus or stomach lining, leading to internal bleeding and infection. This is a life-threatening complication.
- Infection: Regardless of location, the crown can become a source of infection if it scratches or abrades the digestive tract.
What should I do if I swallow a crown?
Immediate Actions:
- Do not induce vomiting. This can worsen the situation and potentially cause further injury.
- Seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor, go to an urgent care clinic, or call emergency services.
- Describe the event accurately to medical professionals. Provide details about the crown (size, material, etc.) and any symptoms you're experiencing.
Medical Treatment:
Your doctor will likely use X-rays or other imaging techniques to locate the crown and determine the best course of action. Options may include:
- Observation: If the crown is small and likely to pass naturally, your doctor may recommend close monitoring.
- Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to locate and remove the crown.
- Surgery: In cases of obstruction or perforation, surgery may be necessary.
What type of crown is most dangerous to swallow?
Larger, irregularly shaped crowns, particularly those made of metal, pose the greatest risk. Porcelain crowns, while potentially causing discomfort, are generally less likely to cause serious complications due to their fragility.
Can a swallowed crown cause long-term health problems?
While many swallowed crowns pass uneventfully, the potential for complications like perforation, infection, and scarring warrants immediate medical attention. Prompt removal minimizes the risk of long-term health consequences.
In conclusion, swallowing a crown is a serious incident that requires immediate medical attention. Delaying treatment can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications. If you or someone you know swallows a crown, seek medical help immediately. Do not attempt to treat this at home.
