A temporary crown is only meant to be a short term measure for protecting the abutment containing the dentin, pulp and root of the tooth. It’s important to keep in mind that it is not a fully functional tooth. As such it has certain care and cleaning requirements to maintain it while you await the dental lab’s completion of your permanent crown.
Should the temporary crown be damaged, come loose or fall out, it could damage the abutment inside resulting in serious complications. With that in mind there are a few basic tips Oakdale Family Dentistry’s team of dentists suggest to help you take good care of your temporary crown.
If at all possible, you should avoid chewing gum and eating sticky foods on that side of your mouth. The suction created has the potential to pull the temporary crown loose. You should also avoid biting down on hard or crunchy foods, as it could actually crack the plastic cap and significantly damage the abutment inside.
Maintaining healthy gums will help ensure that your permanent crown will fit comfortably in place. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth twice a day, as part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Don’t be afraid to floss around the temporary crown. If you’re having issues flossing the area, you might want to try using waxed floss. The waxy coating tends to allow the strand to slip between teeth and around the temporary crown easily.
If your temporary crown feels loose, falls out or your experience pain in the tooth, you should not hesitate to call Oakdale Family Dentistry’s office in Oakdale, Minnesota at 651-731-6464 to set up an appointment.