A temporary crown is a protective cap placed over a prepared tooth while a permanent restoration is fabricated in a dental laboratory. Typically made from acrylic resin, it protects the remaining tooth structure from fracture, bacteria, and temperature changes. It also helps maintain the proper spacing and alignment of neighboring teeth and the opposing bite. Because a temporary crown is only meant to be in place for a short period (usually two to three weeks), it is secured with a weaker, temporary dental cement. This lighter cementation means the seal is not as robust as a permanent crown, requiring special care to keep the tooth protected.
Temperature Sensitivity and Cold Foods
Increased thermal sensitivity is common after a tooth is prepared for a crown, which directly relates to consuming cold items like ice cream. During the preparation process, a significant portion of the protective outer enamel layer is removed, leaving the underlying dentin exposed. The dentin contains thousands of microscopic tubules that connect directly to the inner pulp, which houses the tooth’s nerve.
When the temporary cement does not perfectly seal the crown, these dentin tubules become more susceptible to external stimuli, particularly extreme cold. A cold stimulus, such as ice cream, can cause a rapid shift in the fluid within these tubules, triggering a sharp, temporary pain response from the nerve. While eating ice cream is possible, expect heightened sensitivity or brief, intense discomfort.
To minimize this thermal shock, it is best to avoid direct contact between the cold food and the temporary crown. Using the opposite side of the mouth for chewing and eating the ice cream slowly can help mitigate the sensation. If the sensitivity persists or is very severe, it may indicate a marginal gap in the temporary crown’s seal that needs professional attention.
Protecting the Temporary Crown from Damage
The biggest risk from eating is not cold sensitivity, but the potential for the temporary crown to be dislodged or damaged by mechanical forces. Temporary crowns are made from materials like acrylic or resin, which are not as strong as the ceramic or metal used for permanent restorations. Their thinner material can easily crack or chip under excessive force.
Sticky foods pose a significant threat because they can adhere strongly to the crown’s surface and pull it away from the tooth when the jaws separate. Items like chewing gum, taffy, caramel, and certain chewy breads should be completely avoided, as the adhesive force can easily overcome the weaker temporary cement. Similarly, hard and crunchy foods can cause the temporary material to fracture or dislodge the crown by driving it off the prepared tooth. These include:
- Nuts
- Hard candies
- Popcorn kernels
- Chewing on ice
The primary preventative measure is to consistently use the side of your mouth opposite the temporary crown for chewing. When you must chew near the crown, cut food into smaller pieces and chew gently to minimize the pressure applied to the restoration. Pulling floss straight up when cleaning around the temporary crown is also risky, as it can lift the restoration; instead, slide the floss out horizontally from between the teeth.
What to Do If the Crown Comes Off
If your temporary crown becomes loose or falls off, remain calm and retrieve the crown. The exposed prepared tooth will be sensitive to air and temperature, and vulnerable to shifting or damage. Gently clean both the inside of the crown and the prepared tooth with warm water to remove any debris or old cement.
You should contact your dental office immediately to schedule an appointment for professional re-cementation, as this is the only secure solution. In the interim, if you cannot see the dentist right away, you can attempt to temporarily re-seat the crown yourself. A small amount of over-the-counter temporary dental cement, denture adhesive, or even petroleum jelly can be placed inside the crown to help hold it in position.
This home fix is a short-term solution to protect the tooth and should not be relied upon for more than a day or two. If the crown is damaged or if you experience persistent pain after re-seating it, do not attempt to force it back on; instead, cover the exposed tooth with dental wax (available at pharmacies) and wait for your dental appointment.