Temporary vs. Permanent Crown: What is the Difference?

When considering a dental restoration, the need for a short-term solution versus a long-term fix influences the choice of temporary vs. permanent crown procedure. Crowns, often called “caps,” are dental restorations that cover the entire visible part of a tooth. They are used to recover the shape, strength, and size of the tooth while enhancing its appearance. Crowns in Las Vegas can be either temporary or permanent, each serving different purposes during dental restoration procedures.

What are the Differences Between Temporary vs. Permanent Crowns?

In discussing dental procedures, it’s crucial to understand the differences in durability and materials when comparing a temporary vs. permanent crown:

1. Material: Temporary crowns are made of acrylic-based materials or composite resin, which are quick to make but less durable. Permanent crowns, however, are crafted from stronger materials, designed to last many years and better mimic the natural appearance and strength of teeth.
2. Purpose: The initial role of a temporary crown is to protect the tooth and maintain the proper space between teeth while the permanent crown is being made. A permanent crown’s purpose is to permanently restore a tooth to its ideal shape, function, and aesthetic appearance after the temporary crown phase.
3. Durability: Due to their material composition, temporary crowns are less durable and are only meant to last for a few weeks to a few months. In contrast, permanent crowns are built to endure much longer with proper care.
4. Fit and Comfort: Temporary crowns are pre-made and adjusted to fit the tooth as closely as possible, but they might not provide the perfect fit, resulting in discomfort and adjustment issues. Permanent crowns are custom-made based on the patient’s tooth, ensuring a precise fit and optimal comfort.
5. Aesthetic and Function: As temporary and permanent crowns both serve protective roles, the permanent option offers superior strength and a better match to natural tooth color. They also restore full function to the tooth, allowing for normal eating and speaking.
6. Long-term Oral Health: Permanent crowns enhance long-term oral health by providing a stable, durable solution that protects and strengthens the tooth. Temporary crowns are essential for short-term protection but provide a different level of protection or stability than permanent crowns.

Are Permanent Crowns Better than Temporary Crowns?

In terms of the different processes of temporary vs. permanent crowns, patients often consider longevity and appearance, especially when they are concerned about their smile’s aesthetic. Because permanent crowns are long-lasting, they are made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, gold, metal alloys, or a mix of these materials. Temporary crowns, however, are made from less durable materials like acrylic or composite resin and serve as a space holder until the permanent crown is ready.

Which Type of Crown is Best?

In terms of differences between temporary vs. permanent crowns, dentists consider treating severely decayed teeth, initially protecting the tooth with a temporary option before fitting a more durable permanent crown. Still, the “best” type of crown largely depends on the specific needs and situation of the patient. After all, temporary crowns are essential during the period when your permanent crown is being made.

Is a Temporary Crown the Same Size as a Permanent Crown?

Yes, a temporary crown is designed to be the same size as the permanent crown to maintain the integrity of your bite and jaw alignment. However, because they are often pre-made and adjusted on-site, the fit may not be as perfect as a custom-made permanent crown.

How Long Do Temporary Crowns Last?

Temporary crowns are just that—temporary. They are typically used for a few weeks up to a couple of months. The material used in temporary crowns is not as strong as that used in permanent crowns, so they are not meant to withstand long-term use.

What are the Disadvantages of Temporary Crowns?

Based on temporary vs. permanent crown features, temporary crowns are more prone to wear and tear. They may break or come loose, not perfectly fit, and create issues with comfort and sensitivity. Educating patients on the care required for a temporary or permanent crown is essential, as temporary crowns need more careful handling to avoid dislodgement.

They come with a few disadvantages that patients should be aware of:

• Fit and Comfort: Since temporary crowns are not custom-fitted as permanent crowns, they might not fit as snugly, leading to slight movements of the crown, which might cause irritation or discomfort to the gums and neighboring teeth.
• Sensitivity: The fit issue can also lead to increased sensitivity in the tooth under the crown. Patients may experience discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
• Risk of Dislodgement: Because they are not as securely bonded as permanent crowns, temporary crowns can sometimes become loose or even fall out. What matters is how dentists decide on temporary vs. permanent crowns.
• Aesthetic Limitations: Although temporary crowns are designed to look like natural teeth, they often don’t match the color and shape of surrounding teeth as well as permanent crowns do.
• Maintenance and Care: Temporary crowns require careful maintenance to avoid dislodging them. Patients need to avoid chewing hard, sticky, or chewy foods on the side of the mouth with the temporary crown, which can limit dietary choices.

Can You Eat Normally with a Temporary Crown?

You should be considerate and avoid sticky and hard foods that might dislodge or damage the crown. Otherwise, you should be able to eat normally, but with a bit of caution during the period you have the temporary crown.

Is a Temporary Crown Really Necessary?

Yes, a temporary crown is necessary as it protects the tooth that has been prepared to fit a crown, prevents it from moving out of place, and reduces sensitivity and discomfort while you wait for your permanent crown.

Temporary and Permanent Crown in Las Vegas

Looking to learn more about your options for dental crowns? Contact us at Desert Lake today to schedule a consultation and find out the best dental solutions for you. Our professional dentists will discuss the details during consultations and let you know the importance of each in the treatment plan.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between temporary and permanent crowns can help you make the right decision about your dental health. While temporary crowns serve an important temporary role, permanent crowns provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution. The choice of a temporary or permanent crown procedure affects not just the treatment duration but also impacts the patient’s daily comfort and confidence.

FAQs

Can I fly with a temporary crown?

Yes, flying with a temporary crown is fine, as it does not affect your ability to travel by air.

Do temporary crowns break easily?

Temporary crowns are less durable compared to permanent ones and can break more easily, so it’s important to take care while they are in place.

Can I brush my teeth if my crown falls off?

Yes, you can still brush your teeth, but be gentle around the area to avoid damaging the tooth. Contact your dentist immediately to address the issue.