A dental crown is a fixed device cemented onto your existing teeth by a prosthodontist. Because it generally covers the entire tooth, or ‘caps’ it, a crown is a good restoration procedure for significantly damaged teeth, as long as extraction is ruled out.
Many times, a temporary crown is needed to protect your damaged or decayed tooth while a permanent crown is made in the lab, but there are other reasons to get a temporary crown.
Benefits of a Temporary Crown
Your temporary crown does more than just protect the exposed and damaged areas of your tooth while your permanent one is being made. It also keeps your teeth from shifting, makes your tooth less sensitive, provides aesthetic function, and helps you chew. In addition, a temporary crown can work as a diagnostic test, to see if a cracked tooth can withstand the investment of a permanent.
Proper Care for Temporary Crowns
Treat your crown just as you would your natural teeth by brushing and flossing 2 times a day for 2 minutes, rinsing thoroughly around the crowned tooth. When leaving the dentist, wait an hour before eating, so the cement can set. Avoid sticky foods altogether with temporary crowns, however, as they can pull the crown from your tooth.
It’s also ideal if you can avoid chewing on that side of your mouth as much as possible. If your temporary crown comes off, don’t waste any time contacting our office to schedule getting a replacement. Trying to tough it out can result in sensitivity, pain and damage to your teeth or gums.
Temporary crowns provide protection for your natural teeth until a permanent crown is fabricated, or it is determined that the tooth either has to be extracted or can be restored with a permanent crown. Never hesitate to contact our office with any questions or concerns about your temporary or permanent crown.
Merritt Island