Why Are Temporary Crowns Necessary, and Will They Look Natural?

January 11, 2024

Dental crowns are typically used to restore a tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance and are used in numerous procedures, including dental bridges and implants. However, the process of creating a permanent dental crown can take a few weeks. During this waiting period, temporary crowns play a crucial role in protecting and enhancing your smile.

Here’s why temporary crowns are often necessary when restoring your teeth and whether you can expect them to look natural while you wait for your permanent crown.

Why Do I Need a Temporary Dental Crown?

Temporary crowns are necessary to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being created in a dental laboratory [1]. They help prevent damage to the exposed tooth structure, ensuring the final crown fits properly.

However, temporary crowns also help maintain the tooth’s appearance and prevent discomfort. For example, if you’re getting a dental implant, you don’t want a gap in your teeth where the titanium or ceramic implant would be exposed. A temporary dental crown helps you have a cohesive and natural appearance until your permanent crown is ready.

What to Expect With Temporary Crowns

Temporary crowns are typically made from acrylic or metal [2]. These crowns are prefabricated or custom-made to resemble the natural shape and size of the tooth. Your dentist will attach the temporary crown to the prepared tooth using provisional dental cement, which allows for easy removal when the permanent crown is ready to be placed.

While temporary crowns may not have the same level of durability and aesthetic appeal as permanent crowns, they serve a vital purpose. Patients can expect temporary crowns to provide protection, maintain tooth function, look natural, and alleviate any discomfort or sensitivity that may occur until the permanent crown can be placed.

Natural Look and Feel of Temporary Crowns

Since permanent crowns can take a couple of weeks to make, having a temporary restoration that doesn’t hinder your smile is important. The appearance of temporary crowns is designed to closely resemble natural teeth, and advancements in dental technology have made them more aesthetically pleasing than ever.

Your dentist will customize your temporary crowns to match the color and shape of the existing teeth, ensuring they blend seamlessly into your smile. Patients can feel confident that their smile will still look natural while wearing a temporary crown.

Caring for Temporary Crowns

It’s essential for patients to care for their temporary crowns to ensure they function properly and maintain a natural appearance. Always follow your dentist’s instructions for protectingyour crown, and avoid eating sticky or hard foods that could dislodge or damage the temporary restoration [3].

It’s also essential to practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, to keep the temporary crown and surrounding teeth clean and free from decay. By taking good care of your temporary crown, you can ensure it remains in good condition until the permanent crown is ready.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

If you’re restoring your smile with a dental bridge, dental implants, or implant-supported dentures, chances are you’ll need temporary dental crowns to protect your smile.

Temporary crowns provide a natural appearance and serve an essential purpose until you can get your final crown placed, so don’t overlook their importance when restoring your smile!