A temporary crown is a cap placed over a prepared tooth structure, serving as a placeholder until the final, permanent crown is ready. Its function is to protect the underlying tooth from sensitivity and bacteria. It also prevents the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth from shifting position. This provisional restoration ensures the space remains correctly maintained for the eventual permanent fixture.
Purpose and Standard Duration of Temporary Crowns
The standard duration for wearing a temporary crown is two to three weeks, allowing the dental laboratory time to fabricate the permanent restoration. Temporary crowns are commonly made from materials like acrylic or composite resin, which are less durable than the porcelain or metal alloys used for final crowns. These materials withstand normal chewing forces for a few weeks but lack the longevity for extended use. The crown is secured with a weaker, temporary dental cement that allows the dentist to remove it easily without damaging the underlying tooth. While a month of wear is longer than the ideal period, a temporary crown can generally last that long, provided the patient is careful and there are no complications.
Caring for a Temporary Crown During Extended Wear
Since a month of wear pushes the limits of the provisional restoration, proactive care is necessary to maintain its integrity. Dietary modifications are the most effective way to prevent dislodgement or damage. Patients should avoid foods that can compromise the crown:
- Sticky foods like chewing gum, caramels, or taffy, which can pull the crown off the tooth.
- Hard or crunchy items, such as nuts, hard candy, or ice, which can fracture the acrylic material.
When eating, chew primarily on the side of the mouth opposite the temporary crown to minimize direct force.
Maintaining oral hygiene requires a modified technique around the temporary crown. Gentle brushing twice a day is necessary to prevent plaque buildup. Flossing must be done carefully to avoid pulling the crown loose; instead of pulling the floss up and out, gently slide it out sideways from between the teeth after cleaning the area.
Addressing Potential Issues with Longer-Term Use
The main risk associated with wearing a temporary crown for a month or longer is the degradation of the temporary cement seal. Over time, this weaker cement can wash out or dissolve, leading to micro-leakage around the margins. This compromises the protective seal, allowing bacteria and food debris to access the prepared tooth, increasing the risk of sensitivity, decay, or infection.
Cement Failure and Dislodgement
If the temporary crown becomes dislodged, the prepared tooth is immediately vulnerable to damage and shifting. If the crown falls off, clean the tooth gently and contact the dentist immediately for guidance. The dentist may instruct the patient to temporarily re-cement the crown using an over-the-counter dental adhesive until a professional appointment can be scheduled.
Occlusal Wear and Shifting
Extended wear also introduces the possibility of occlusal wear, where the softer temporary material wears down from chewing forces. This can cause opposing or adjacent teeth to shift slightly, as the crown no longer maintains the correct bite height or spacing. If the tooth shifts, the permanent crown may no longer seat properly, potentially requiring adjustments or a remake. If a delay past 30 days is anticipated, patients should consult their dental office about a maintenance appointment to check the crown’s fit and reinforce the cement.