Having a tooth crowned probably isn’t anybody’s idea of a good time. Most likely, you need a dental crown because you’ve had a root canal or large filling where the structure of the tooth has been compromised. In these cases, only a dental crown can provide adequate protection.
After the dental work on the tooth is completed, our dentists will take an impression of the tooth and send it to the lab where the crown is made to fit in among your teeth perfectly.
The fabrication of a permanent dental crown can take a little time. So, you will usually receive a temporary crown from our dentists here at Bridge Creek Dental to protect the tooth until the permanent one is ready. Your temporary crown will help you carry on pretty normally until then.
How Long Does A Temporary Crown Last
While your temporary crown might feel and work just fine, it’s important to remember that they are not meant to be a long-term solution.
For instance, it is best that you are careful about chewing hard or sticky foods in the area where your temporary crown is placed. Also, you will want to brush and floss more carefully around it, as a temporary dental crown is not as secure as a permanent crown.
Some people may think that as long as they avoid sticky foods or chewing on the side where the temporary crown is placed that it will last as long as a permanent crown—which can last about 10 years with proper care. However, with a temporary crown, they have been created with the idea that the temporary crown will only be in place for about a month or two maximum.
Beyond that, there is no saying how long exactly how long a temporary crown will technically last. But there are some pretty clear consequences if you keep a temporary dental crown on for too long.
What Can Happen If You Keep A Temporary Crown Too Long
Your permanent crown will usually be ready within a couple of weeks. It’s important that you follow through in the time frame you’re given because there can be complications from keeping your temporary crown for too long.
Below are some of the most common complications from hanging onto a temporary dental crown for too long.
Decay
Your temporary crown isn’t meant to be there forever. Because the crown is meant to stay in place for less than a month, it’s not affixed the same way a permanent dental crown would be adhered.
As temporary dental crown cement is not the most effective protection against bacteria, you are far more likely to experience dental decay. Leaving it on too long may result in deterioration underneath the temporary crown, where the problem cannot be easily detected until it’s well underway. The longer you keep your temporary crown, the greater your chances of developing this decay. It could even result in an infection and cause a painful abscess.
Deterioration
Along with deterioration of your natural tooth under the dental crown, the temporary crown itself will undergo deterioration if left in place too long.
Temporary crowns are not made of the same grade materials that permanent crowns are made of, and even the more sturdy permanent crowns need to be replaced eventually. Over time, the materials that make up a temporary crown can deteriorate, opening you up for sensitivity, unfortunate changes in your bite, which can poorly affect the surrounding teeth. Also, a deteriorating crown creates hiding places for bacteria to infect your crowned tooth.
Fracture Risk
Especially in the case of molars with dental crowns, your teeth take a lot of chewing pressure. A temporary crown provides only light-to-moderate protection.
With the tooth already compromised by previous work, it’s at a higher risk for fracture. Only your permanent crown can offer the all-around protection the tooth needs.
Staining
This is a cosmetic issue, but bothersome just the same. Temporary crowns are more prone to staining from various foods, drinks, or smoking. Obviously, this staining will make them stand out.
Your permanent crown doesn’t carry the same tendency, as they are made from less porous material usually, which helps it look like a natural tooth and not become unnaturally stained.
Don’t Wait To Replace Your Temporary Dental Crown
Temporary crowns are necessary and helpful, letting you continue with your life in between dental visits. But they are called temporary crowns for a reason. These oral appliances do need to be replaced with a more durable permanent dental crown to properly protect your crowned tooth.
If you’re concerned about timing, need to wait longer because of insurance coverage, or have other questions, feel free to contact us or discuss it when you receive your temporary crown. We will do our best to accommodate your needs to ensure the best possible outcome.