The Ultimate Guide to Temporary Dental Crown Care

The Ultimate Guide to Temporary Dental Crown Care By Dr. Abhi Singh | May 12, 2023

The Ultimate Guide to Temporary Dental Crown Care

A temporary dental crown protects your prepared tooth while waiting for your permanent crown to be made and placed. It acts as a short-term alternative during the permanent crown preparation. Crowns are used to address extensive decay, severe damage, fractured teeth or teeth with large fillings. It is also used to enhance the appearance of a tooth. Permanent crown placement involves multiple steps, with the temporary crown playing a crucial role in the interim period. This blog post will explore how to care for temporary dental crowns. Providing appropriate, special care and maintenance for temporary dental crowns is crucial to promote longevity and protect the underlying tooth. This comprehensive guide offers essential information on properly caring for and maintaining your temporary dental crown and producing optimal outcomes during the transitional phase.

Summary of the Content:

  • Temporary dental crowns protect prepared teeth and maintain functionality while permanent crowns are being fabricated.
  • To care for temporary dental crowns, practice gentle brushing and careful flossing to keep the area clean.
  • Rinse with antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and maintain oral health.
  • Avoid sticky, hard, and crunchy foods that can damage or dislodge the temporary crown.
  • Take precautions to prevent dislodgement, such as avoiding excessive force and wearing a nightguard for teeth grinding.
  • Manage sensitivity and discomfort with good oral hygiene, desensitising toothpaste, and avoiding extreme temperature changes.
  • Address common issues like loosening, dislodgement, or chipping promptly by contacting a dentist.
  • Seek professional help for persistent pain, significant sensitivity, signs of infection, or complete loss of the temporary crown.
  • During the transition to a permanent crown, the temporary crown is removed, the prepared tooth is evaluated, and the permanent crown is fitted, adjusted, and cemented.
  • Follow the guidance of a dentist for proper care and maintenance of the temporary crown to facilitate the successful placement of the permanent crown.
Prospect Road Dental Surgery Armadale

What is a Temporary Dental Crown and Why is it Important?

A temporary dental crown is a provisional crown made from acrylic or composite materials placed over a prepared tooth. It serves several important purposes:

Protection

The temporary crown protects the underlying natural tooth structure from permanent damage and sensitivity when the permanent crown is being fabricated. The temporary crown acts as a shield, covering the prepared tooth and providing a protective barrier against external forces, such as chewing and biting. This protection is vital to prevent further damage or sensitivity to the tooth, especially if it has been significantly compromised due to decay, fractures, or other dental issues.

By covering the prepared tooth, the temporary crown help provides a durable structure and maintains the integrity of the underlying tooth structure. It provides support and prevents teeth from damage like fractures or breakage that could occur without the temporary crown in place.

Functionality

The temporary crown protects the underlying tooth structure. It restores the tooth’s functionality, allowing you to eat and speak normally during the preparation and placement of the permanent crown.

A dental crown’s primary function is restoring the ability to chew and bite properly. With a temporary crown, you can enjoy a wide range of regular foods without discomfort or difficulty. The temporary crown is designed to withstand the forces of chewing and biting, allowing you to maintain your normal diet while your permanent crown is being fabricated.

Aesthetics

In addition to their protective and functional role, temporary crowns are designed to mimic the appearance of the final dental restoration. They are used to provide patients with a natural-looking smile while waiting for the permanent crown. For patients with tooth decay or are required other dental restorations, the temporary crown is an essential part of the dental crown procedure. It is an interim solution allowing patients to maintain an aesthetically pleasing smile throughout treatment.

Temporary crowns are carefully crafted to closely resemble the final restoration’s colour, shape, and size. They are designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural teeth, ensuring a harmonious and natural appearance. By mimicking the characteristics of the permanent crown, the temporary crown allows patients to smile confidently and interact with others without feeling self-conscious.

A temporary dental crown placement helps patients visualise the outcome of their dental restoration. It provides an opportunity for patients to assess the aesthetics of the crown and communicate any desired modifications or adjustments to their dentist before the placement of the permanent crown. This allows for customisation and ensures the final restoration meets the patient’s expectations.

Proper Oral Hygiene for Temporary Dental Crown Care

Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial for the care and longevity of your temporary dental crown. By following these guidelines, you can protect the health of both the temporary crown and the underlying tooth:

  1. Gentle Brushing:
    Brush your teeth and the temporary crown twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use soft, circular motions to keep the area around the temporary crown clean, including the surface where the crown meets the tooth. Avoid excessive force or scrubbing, which can damage the crown or irritate the gum tissue.
  2. Flossing Carefully:
    Flossing is essential for removing plaque and food debris between your teeth, including around the temporary crown. Use caution when flossing around the crown to avoid dislodging it. Gently slide the floss between the teeth, and move it up and down along the side of the crown. Floss with care to prevent any accidental loosening or removal of the crown.
  3. Mouthwash Rinse:
    Rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce bacteria and maintain a clean oral environment. Choose a mouthwash recommended by your dentist and follow the instructions for use. This can help prevent plaque buildup, avoid periodontal disease and keep the gums healthy around the temporary crown.
  4. Avoid Excessive Force:
    Be cautious while biting or chewing to prevent unnecessary stress on the temporary crown. Try to favour the opposite side of your mouth to reduce pressure on the crown.
  5. Be Mindful of Sticky Foods:
    Sticky substances like chewing gum, caramel, or taffy can adhere to the temporary crown and cause it to dislodge or break. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that can potentially dislodge or damage the crown.
  6. Minimise Grinding and Clenching:
    If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, inform your dentist. Grinding or clenching can put excessive pressure on the temporary crown and compromise its stability. Your dentist may recommend a nightguard or splint to protect both the temporary crown and your natural teeth from the damaging effects of bruxism.
  7. Regular Dental Check-ups:
    Attend regular dental check-ups with experienced dentists. These appointments allow them to monitor the condition of your temporary crown, ensure its proper fit and function, and address any potential issues promptly.

Remember, temporary crowns are not as durable as permanent ones, requiring extra care and precaution. If you experience any issues with your temporary crown, such as loosening, dislodgment, discomfort, or persistent sensitivity, contact your dentist promptly so they can evaluate your case and guide you towards the next steps.

Foods to Avoid with a Temporary Dental Crown

While wearing a temporary dental crown, avoiding certain foods that can potentially damage or dislodge the crown is essential. Sticky food items like chewing gum, caramel, or taffy can adhere to the temporary crown and cause it to dislodge or break. Hard and crunchy foods such as ice, candies, nuts, and popcorn kernels can put excessive pressure on the temporary crown. Chewy food items like tough meats or sticky bread should be avoided as they can dislodge or damage the temporary crown. Extreme temperature changes can cause the temporary crown to expand or contract, leading to cracks or loosening. Avoid consuming very hot or cold foods and beverages.

How to Prevent Dislodging Your Temporary Crown

To prevent the dislodgement of your temporary crown, it is crucial to exercise caution and follow some guidelines. First, avoid consuming sticky or hard foods that could loosen the crown. Avoid sugary foods like caramel, toffee, and hard lollies, and habits like biting down on ice or pencils. When eating, favour the side of your mouth without the temporary crown to minimise pressure. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits is also essential. Brush your teeth gently and floss carefully; slide the floss out rather than forcefully lifting it. Refrain from exerting excessive force on your teeth by avoiding nail biting or using your teeth as tools.

Regular dental check-ups are important, allowing your dentist to monitor the condition of the temporary crown and make any necessary adjustments. Finally, if you experience any discomfort or tooth sensitivity, or notice changes in the temporary crown, promptly contact your dentist to address the issue. These precautions can reduce the risk of dislodging your temporary crown and maintain optimal oral health.

Managing Sensitivity and Discomfort Associated with Temporary Dental Crowns

Temporary dental crowns can occasionally lead to persistent gum sensitivity and discomfort. Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is crucial to managing these concerns effectively. Gently brush your teeth and the temporary crown with a soft bristle toothbrush, paying attention to the gum line. Consider using desensitising toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth to help alleviate any discomfort. Limit your exposure to hot foods and extremely cold beverages as they can trigger sensitivity to heat or cold food and beverages. You may opt for lukewarm or room-temperature foods and drinks to minimise discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers may offer temporary relief if needed. Additionally, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help soothe gum irritation. If discomfort persists or sensitivity increases despite these measures, it is recommended to see your dentist for advice and guidance for further evaluation and potential adjustments.

Recognising and Addressing Common Temporary Crown Issues

Temporary crowns may experience specific common issues that require attention. Contact your dentist immediately if the temporary crown becomes loose or dislodged. Avoid re-cementing it yourself, as improper placement can cause further complications. If the quick crown chips or fractures, save any broken pieces and consult your dentist for a check-up, repair or replacement. It’s essential to address these issues promptly to secure the proper fit and protection of the prepared tooth.

When to Seek Professional Help for Temporary Crown Complications

If you experience persistent pain or significant sensitivity or notice any signs of infection around the temporary crown, it’s essential to seek professional help. These symptoms may indicate underlying issues that require immediate attention. Additionally, if the temporary crown falls out completely, it’s important to contact your dentist for an evaluation and proper reattachment.

The Transition from a Temporary to a Permanent Dental Crown

After wearing a temporary dental crown for some time, you will return to your dentist for a check-up and the placement of the permanent crown. This transition involves several essential steps, including removing the temporary crown, evaluating the prepared tooth, fitting and adjusting the permanent crown, placing strong cement on the crown, and final adjustments and bite evaluation. Let’s explore each of these steps in more detail:

  • Removal of the temporary crown:
    Your dentist will carefully remove the temporary crown to see that the underlying tooth structure remains intact. This process is usually straightforward and painless.
  • Evaluation of the prepared tooth:
    Before placing the permanent crown, the dentist will thoroughly examine the prepared tooth to ensure it is healthy and ready for permanent restoration. Before proceeding, they will check for signs of decay, infection, or other issues requiring treatment.
  • Fit and adjustment of the permanent crown:
    The permanent crown will be tried on your tooth to assess its fit and aesthetics. The dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a precise fit and optimal function. This may involve shaping the crown or adjusting its contours to ensure proper alignment with the neighbouring teeth.
  • Cementation of the permanent crown:
    Once the fit is confirmed, the dentist will proceed with the cementation of the permanent crown. Dental cement, often a type of temporary cement, will be used to bond the crown securely to the prepared tooth. The cementation process may involve cleaning the tooth, etching its surface to enhance bonding, and applying the cement before carefully placing the crown in position.
  • Final adjustments and bite evaluation:
    After the crown is cemented, your dentist will check your bite to ensure proper alignment and occlusion. They may adjust the crown’s shape or your bite if necessary. This step is crucial to ensure that the crown functions properly and does not cause any discomfort or bite-related issues.

While transitioning from a temporary to a permanent dental crown, your dentist will guide you through each step, addressing any concerns or questions. Following this process ensures the successful placement of the permanent crown, providing you with a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing restoration.

Final Thoughts

Temporary dental crowns protect the prepared tooth, restore functionality, and maintain aesthetics during the transition to a permanent crown. It is essential to care for and maintain your temporary crown to promote its longevity and protect the underlying tooth. Practising good oral hygiene, avoiding certain foods that can cause dental damage, and seeking professional help for any issues or complications are critical to optimal outcomes. By following these guidelines and working with us closely here at Prospect Road Dental Surgery, you can successfully navigate the temporary crown phase and achieve a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing permanent dental crown.

Prospect Road Dental Surgery
Dr. Abhi Singh
Dr. Abhi is a member of the Australian Dental Association and loves living and working in our community. He has eight years of experience in all aspects of dentistry, with a special interest in dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, and cosmetic dentistry.