For people who are used with regular dental visits, a temporary crown may not be completely unknown. Even though a temporary crown is not made to last a long period, it may be very useful in certain circumstances.
If you visit www.infodentist.com you may find many useful information about the dental area (including temporary crowns).
When is a temporary crown utilized? A temporary crown is a provisional restoration that is cemented on a prepared tooth until the definitive restoration is completed. Basically, when you need a dental crown, the dentist will prepare your tooth (by grinding with specific instruments) and then make a dental impression.
The impression is sent to the dental lab where your crown will be fabricated. The process can take some days (even weeks if the lab is very busy). During this period, it is very important to protect your prepared tooth (for example, from temperature variations) and prevent damage to the surrounding tissues (the gums).
This is why a temporary crown is indicated. Besides protecting the prepared tooth, the temporary crown will partially restore aesthetics, by disguising the prepared teeth to some degree, and will help restore the chewing process.
Today, a temporary crown can be made of a variety of materials. Generally, temporary crowns are constructed from plastic-like materials (acrylic) or composite resins. It is also possible to manufacture temporary crowns from stainless steel or aluminium. Composite and acrylic materials have certain aesthetic advantages : they can be closely matched to the color of the neighbouring teeth.
A temporary crown can be constructed by the dentist using a specific crown kit or it can be fabricated by the dental technician after an impression received from the dental office. Regardless of the technique used, the temporary crown should be fixed during the same day so it can protect the prepared tooth.
A temporary crown can be also utilized after a dental implant is inserted. This way, patients will not have to stay with metal implants in their mouth until the definitive restoration is ready. Even if, normally, a temporary crown adds to the final cost, it has many advantages that will overcome the price factor. It is advisable to talk with your dentist about which types of temporary crowns are better for you.
Besides temporary crowns, other types of temporary restorations are available (such as provisional removable dentures or temporary bridges). In case you are planning for a larger restoration, it is good to discuss with your dentist these options as well.
