While your permanent crown is being designed in a dental laboratory, you will need to wear a temporary crown. This hard plastic cap is cemented over the abutment and root of the tooth to protect it. The temporary crown doesn’t restore the full function of the tooth it merely protects it. There are a few things to keep in mind to maintain the area while you wait for the lab to finish your permanent crown.
It’s important to keep up your daily oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing twice per day. This helps to clean the area around the temporary crown and maintain the health of your gums. Healthy gum tissues make it easier for the permanent crown later. Some people find that waxed floss is easier to work in and around the temporary crown.
It’s a good idea to avoid eating too sticky foods or chewing gum on that side of your mouth. They could actually pull the temporary crown loose. At the same time biting down on hard foods, crunching ice or chewing on hard objects can also crack the biting surface of your temporary crown.
If your temporary crown becomes loose or falls out, you should call us immediately at 334-745-6393 to set up an appointment to clean the area and cement the cap back in place.