Temporary Dental Crowns

Dental crowns, otherwise known as ”caps”, are dental restorations that are coverings that fit over teeth.  There are a variety of reasons when dental crowns may need to be used including: 

• A previously filled tooth where there now exists more filling than tooth.  The existing tooth structure becomes weakened and can no longer support the filling.
• Extensive damage by decay.
• Discolorations and stained teeth, which compromises your appearance.
• Fractures
• Protection following a root canal as teeth tend to become brittle and are more apt to fracture.
• Support for Bridges -the adjacent teeth may require crowns in order to support the replacement teeth (bridge).

Crowns strengthen and protect the remaining tooth structure and can improve the appearance of your teeth.  Permanent dental crowns can be made from different materials including metals (gold, nickel), ceramics (porcelain), or a combination of both (porcelain fused-to-metal).  You and your dentist will decide which type is appropriate, depending upon the strength requirements and esthetic concerns of the tooth involved.

However, a temporary dental crown is used while the permanent crown is being made.  Before a dental crown can be placed on a tooth, the cosmetic dentist files the tooth to create a fit.  Once this is completed, an impression of the tooth and all surrounding teeth is made.  An impression of your teeth is then taken and sent to the dental lab where permanent, custom-made dental crowns are created, usually taking one to two weeks.  During this interim period, temporary dental crowns made of an acrylic resin or stainless steel is fitted onto the teeth.  Unlike permanent dental crowns which are manufactured in a laboratory, temporary dental crowns are fabricated right there in the dentist’s office. 

Temporary dental crowns are held in place by ”temporary” cement, which allows for easier removal for your next dentist appointment, when the permanent dental crown is fitted.  Because this cement is not as strong as other types of dental cement, your dentist will probably suggest that you take some precautions so not to dislodge your temporary crown.  Some precautions your dentist might suggest are listed below.    

1. Avoid sticky, chewy foods (for example, chewing gum, caramel), which have the potential of grabbing and pulling off the crown.
2. Minimize use of the side of your mouth with the temporary crown. Shift the bulk of your chewing to the other side of your mouth.                                                                                                                                         
3. Avoid chewing hard foods (such as raw vegetables), which could dislodge or break the crown.                  
4. Slide flossing material out-rather than lifting out-when cleaning your teeth. Lifting the floss out, as you normally would, might pull off the temporary crown.

If you do need a dental crown, contact your doctor to see if you are indeed an ideal candidate.  They will be able to advise you about the dental crown that would best suit your individual needs.  While having the temporary crown, be sure to ask your dentists about any precautions that are important and relevant to your specific situation.

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