What’s the difference — and why you need both during your treatment.
If you’ve been told you need a dental crown, your treatment will likely involve two stages: first, you’ll receive a temporary crown, and a few weeks later, a permanent crown.
Many patients ask: “What’s the difference between a temporary and permanent crown?”
“Can I skip the temporary and wait for the real one?”
Here’s what each type of crown is for, how they compare, and what to expect during the process.
🔍 What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It’s used to:
- Restore a tooth after a large filling or root canal
- Strengthen a cracked or worn-down tooth
- Improve the shape, colour, or alignment of a tooth
- Support a dental bridge
Getting a crown usually takes two appointments. The first visit involves preparing the tooth and placing a temporary crown, while the second visit involves placing the permanent crown once it’s ready.
🕒 What Is a Temporary Crown?
A temporary crown is a short-term solution made from acrylic or composite resin. It’s placed after your tooth has been reshaped to protect it while your custom permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental lab.
✅ Purpose of a Temporary Crown:
- Protects the prepared tooth from sensitivity and bacteria
- Allows you to chew and speak normally while you wait
- Maintains spacing and alignment in your bite
- Gives your gums time to settle into their new shape
🪄 What Is a Permanent Crown?
A permanent crown is your final restoration — made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or metal alloys. It’s designed to match your natural teeth and restore full function and appearance.
✅ Features of a Permanent Crown:
- Long-lasting and durable
- Custom colour-matched and shaped to blend with your smile
- Cemented in place with strong dental adhesive
- Can last 10–15 years or more with proper care
🆚 Temporary vs. Permanent Crowns: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Temporary Crown | Permanent Crown |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Acrylic or composite resin | Porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or metal |
| Longevity | 1–3 weeks | 10–15+ years |
| Appearance | Basic colour and shape | Custom-matched to your natural teeth |
| Function | Basic chewing & protection | Full strength, durability, and aesthetics |
| Attachment | Weak temporary cement | Strong permanent dental cement |
| Purpose | Short-term protection | Long-term tooth restoration |
⚠️ Things to Know About Temporary Crowns
- They’re not as strong — avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods
- You may feel mild sensitivity to hot/cold foods
- Floss gently by pulling the floss out sideways, not upward
- If it falls off, call your dental office — it can be re-cemented
🦷 Pro tip: Your temporary crown helps ensure your final crown fits perfectly by maintaining the space and alignment in your mouth.
🎯 Why You Can’t Skip the Temporary Crown
Some patients ask if they can skip the temporary and wait for the final crown — but skipping the temporary can:
- Lead to tooth sensitivity and discomfort
- Cause shifting of nearby teeth, affecting crown fit
- Increase the risk of tooth damage or infection
Even though it’s temporary, this crown plays a key role in your treatment plan.
Final Thoughts
While temporary crowns are only meant to last a few weeks, they serve an essential purpose. Your permanent crown is a long-term solution that restores the strength, appearance, and function of your tooth — but the temporary crown helps ensure that final result is perfect.
Getting a crown soon? Book your appointment or follow-up visit with us — and if your temporary crown feels loose, uncomfortable, or comes off, call us right away so we can take care of it.