What Is a Temporary Dental Crown?

Why Do You Need a Temporary Crown?

Once a tooth has been prepared for a crown, some of its outer structure has been removed. The tooth can become more sensitive to cold or pressure, especially if the preparation was fairly extensive. A temporary crown gives it some protection during this waiting period.

It also helps you chew without constantly thinking about the prepared tooth. And because it roughly matches the shape of your planned permanent crown, your bite can be checked before the final crown is fitted.

What Does It Actually Do?

A temporary crown can also make the gap between appointments feel much less noticeable. You leave the dental chair with a covered tooth instead of walking around wondering what you’re supposed to do with it.

• Protection first. It shields the prepared tooth from everyday pressure and sensitivity while you wait.

• The shape matters too, because your dentist can see how your bite feels before the permanent crown goes on.

• Usually made from temporary dental material, which is designed for short-term use rather than years of chewing.

How Long Does a Temporary Crown Stay On?

Usually, only until your permanent crown is ready. That could be around a couple of weeks, depending on how the crown is being made and how quickly your next appointment is arranged.

The temporary crown is attached with temporary cement. That sounds a little strange, but there’s a reason for it. Your dentist needs to be able to remove the temporary crown later without damaging the prepared tooth.

Because it isn’t designed for long-term use, you shouldn’t treat it exactly like a permanent crown. Sticky foods can be a nuisance. Very hard foods aren’t a great idea either.

What Should You Be Careful With?

You don’t need to sit around terrified of touching the crown. Just be sensible with it.

• Sticky sweets are the annoying one. They can pull at the temporary crown and loosen it, particularly if you’re already chewing on that side.

• Flossing is still important, although your dentist may show you a gentler way to slide the floss out rather than snapping it upward.

• If the crown feels loose, don’t keep testing it with your tongue every five minutes. Call the dental practice instead.

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