My crown fell out last night...?!

My crown fell out last night...?

and I wasn't sure if I HAVE to get it replaced or put back in? It was first a root canal about 3 years ago, then crowned last year.

I popped a piece of gum in last night while I was at a banquet and my tooth fell onto my tongue, stuck to the gum. The whole thing, crown, post and all. It's not very noticeable, top left 4th from the front, and I really don't want to waste my time or money getting it put back in or replaced. Not to mention how sensitive to pain my mouth is.

Is it okay to just leave it alone? I am 20 years old and have very bad teeth (runs in the family, both sides) so I know this unfortunately won't be the last one.

Any suggestions on what I should do? Does it need cleaned out by a dentist or anything?

2 months ago
I know I need to get to the dentist sooner or later, I have a cavity on the same tooth on the opposite side, but I work 730a-5p M-F and cannot find time to make an appointment in the immediate future.

2 months ago
I didn't have to pay for the root canal or crown, paid 100% by insurance, so it's not like I am out of any money on it, and don't see a need to have it replaced. But I will try to call and make an appt. to have it looked at and cemented over or whatever.

It probley doesn't hurt since you have had a root canal, but you spent all that money on the tooth, I wouldn't leave it out too long to many things could happen, then all the money you dropped into this thing will go down the drain. Most drug stores sell a temporary cement material, try putting it in to make sure you have the right fit befor you put the cement in it, that should hold you over until you can get into the dental office but I wouldn't wait anylonger than 2-weeks.