A temporary dental crown is an essential part of the crown restoration process. It protects your prepared tooth while your permanent crown is being custom-made in the dental lab. While temporary crowns are strong enough to function, they are not as durable as permanent crowns and require a little extra care to keep them intact during this transitional period.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we want you to enjoy a smooth, stress-free experience from start to finish. This guide will walk you through the best immediate care tips after receiving a temporary crown, helping you protect your smile and avoid unnecessary complications.
Why Temporary Crowns Need Special Care
Temporary crowns are made from acrylic or composite materials designed for short-term use. They serve several key purposes:
Protecting the prepared tooth from damage or sensitivity
Maintaining tooth alignment and spacing
Allowing you to eat and speak comfortably while your permanent crown is being fabricated
However, they are more prone to cracking, dislodging, or wearing down compared to permanent crowns, making proper care essential.
Immediate Care Tips After Temporary Crown Placement
1. Avoid Sticky and Chewy Foods
Sticky foods like gum, caramel, taffy, or gummy candies can pull your temporary crown off. Avoid these foods completely until your permanent crown is placed.
2. Steer Clear of Hard or Crunchy Foods
Foods that require significant chewing pressure can crack or dislodge the temporary crown. Avoid:
Nuts
Hard candies
Ice cubes
Popcorn
Crusty bread
Opt for soft, easy-to-chew foods instead.
3. Chew on the Opposite Side
If your temporary crown is on the right, chew on the leftand vice versa. This reduces pressure on the temporary crown and helps prevent accidental damage.
4. Avoid Flossing the Traditional Way
Flossing is important, but with a temporary crown, be gentle. Instead of snapping the floss up and down between teeth, slide it out sideways to avoid accidentally lifting the crown.
5. Manage Sensitivity Carefully
Its normal to experience some temperature sensitivityespecially to hot, cold, or sweet foodswhile wearing a temporary crown. Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth and avoid extremes in food temperature.
6. Keep Up With Gentle Oral Hygiene
Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Be gentle around the temporary crown to avoid loosening it.
Continue flossing with care as described.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene helps prevent decay around the temporary crown and prepares your tooth for the permanent restoration.
7. Avoid Biting Fingernails or Non-Food Objects
Habits like biting nails, chewing pens, or tearing open packages with your teeth can dislodge or crack the temporary crown.
What to Do If Your Temporary Crown Comes Off
Despite your best efforts, sometimes temporary crowns do come off. If this happens:
Contact McLevin Dental immediately.
Keep the crown safe and bring it with you.
If you cant get to the dentist right away, a small dab of over-the-counter dental cement (available at pharmacies) can temporarily hold it in placebut this is only a short-term solution.
Avoid chewing on the affected side until it is reattached.
Prompt action helps protect your prepared tooth and prevents discomfort or further damage.
Foods That Are Safe to Eat With a Temporary Crown
Mashed potatoes
Yogurt
Scrambled eggs
Pasta (soft-cooked)
Smoothies (no straws)
Soft bread
Cooked vegetables
Soup (lukewarm)
How Long Will You Wear a Temporary Crown?
Most patients wear a temporary crown for 1 to 2 weeks, though it can sometimes be a little longer depending on the complexity of the dental work or lab turnaround. Your dentist at McLevin Dental will inform you of your exact timeline.
When to Call McLevin Dental
Reach out to our office if you notice:
The crown feels loose or comes off
Sharp edges are irritating your tongue or gums
You experience pain or discomfort beyond normal sensitivity
Swelling, redness, or signs of infection near the crown
Protecting Your Smile Until the Permanent Crown Is Ready
Temporary crowns are an important step in achieving a strong, beautiful, and functional smile. With mindful care, you can avoid complications and ensure the transition to your permanent crown is seamless.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, our goal is to help you every step of the way. If you have any concerns about your temporary crown or want advice about caring for it, contact our friendly team. Your smileand your comfortis always our top priority.