What does “Temporary dental crown” mean?
A temporary crown covers a prepared tooth while a final crown is being made or treatment is ongoing. It protects the tooth and maintains its form until the next stage, and is distinct from the definitive crown.
Used while waiting for the final restoration
After a tooth is prepared for a crown, a temporary crown may be used while the definitive restoration is made. It covers and protects the prepared tooth. When the definitive crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed and the fit of the new crown is assessed.
Temporary does not mean discomfort should be ignored
A temporary crown also covers the tooth and takes part in the bite, so high contacts or movement matter. Tell the dental team if these problems occur. Refixation or another form of temporary protection may be needed depending on its condition.
If it comes off, assess the tooth and crown together
When a temporary crown comes off, the remaining tooth and crown are checked to decide whether it can be fixed again. Keep the detached part to bring to the appointment, and do not use household glue. Even without pain, advice is needed on protecting the tooth until the next treatment stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
If a temporary crown is comfortable, can I keep using it indefinitely?
A temporary crown is intended for a limited period and does not replace planned definitive treatment, even if it is comfortable. Replacement timing depends on its purpose and how treatment is progressing.
Is every crown held with temporary cement a temporary crown?
No. A definitive crown may be fixed temporarily when later removal is planned. The type of restoration and its fixation method are separate questions.
Questions while using a temporary crown
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
What happens at the next appointment?
Explanation and evidenceClarify the plan for making, trying in and placing the definitive restoration, and the purpose of the temporary crown.
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust · Crowns - Care after treatment
What should I do if it loosens or comes off?
Explanation and evidenceHave the dental team assess protection of the remaining tooth and possible refixation, and keep any detached part to bring with you.
SDCEP · Fractured, loose or displaced teeth and restorations
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust · Crownsleedsth.nhs.uk (opens in a new tab)
- SDCEP · Fractured, loose or displaced teeth and restorationsacutedentalproblems.sdcep.org.uk (opens in a new tab)
- Academy of Prosthodontics · The Glossary of Prosthodontic Terms, ninth editionacademyofprosthodontics.org (opens in a new tab)
