What's the Point of Temporary Crowns?

Posted on 1/1/2026 by Scholes Periodontics & Implants

A dental crown placed on a prepared molar tooth in the gums, demonstrating a restorative dental procedure.

Temporary crowns play a vital role in restorative dentistry, serving as a placeholder while your permanent crown is being crafted. These temporary crowns protect your prepared tooth, maintain proper spacing and bite, and even enhance aesthetics during the interim period.

Think of temporary crowns as a crucial step in the journey towards your beautiful, healthy smile. Let's delve deeper into their purpose and benefits:

Protecting the Prepared Tooth

Once your tooth is prepared for a crown, it becomes more vulnerable to sensitivity, infection, and potential damage. Temporary crowns act as a protective barrier, shielding the exposed tooth structure from these risks. They prevent food debris and bacteria from accumulating in the sensitive areas, promoting optimal oral hygiene and preventing complications.

Maintaining Proper Spacing and Bite

Temporary crowns maintain the proper spacing and alignment of your teeth. This ensures your bite remains balanced and prevents any shifting of surrounding teeth. Maintaining proper bite is crucial for your overall oral health and comfort.

Enhancing Aesthetics

While temporary crowns are not as aesthetically pleasing as permanent crowns, they still play a role in enhancing your appearance during the interim period. They can improve the shape and color of your prepared tooth, boosting your confidence and allowing you to smile without hesitation.

Additional Benefits

Beyond their primary functions, temporary crowns offer additional benefits:

•	They allow you to test the fit and feel of the final crown. The temporary crown gives you a preview of how the permanent crown will look and function, allowing for adjustments before the final restoration is placed.
•	They provide a comfortable chewing surface. Temporary crowns are made from materials that allow for comfortable chewing, minimizing any discomfort during the interim period.
•	They can last for several months. Depending on the material used, temporary crowns can last for several months, providing long-lasting protection until your permanent crown is ready.

Caring for Your Temporary Crown

Proper care is essential to ensure your temporary crown lasts until your permanent crown is placed. Here are some tips:

•	Practice good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly, paying extra attention to the area around the temporary crown.
•	Avoid hard and sticky foods. These can damage the temporary crown and cause it to come loose.
•	Limit chewing on the side with the temporary crown. This reduces the stress on the crown and prevents breakage.
•	See your dentist if you experience any problems. If you feel pain, discomfort, or notice the crown is loose, contact your dentist immediately.

By understanding the purpose and benefits of temporary crowns, you can appreciate their vital role in the restorative process. They are not just a temporary solution; they play a crucial role in protecting your oral health and ensuring a successful outcome for your permanent crown. Remember, proper care and communication with your dentist are key to a smooth and comfortable experience throughout the process.

Scholes Periodontics & Implants in Chandler, AZ

Scholes Periodontics & Implants
Dr. Scholes
595 N Dobson Rd B#34
Chandler, AZ 85224

O: (480) 786-0940
F: (480) 786-5694

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Monday: 9AM–3PM
Tuesday: 7AM–4:30PM
Wednesday: 7AM–4PM
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Scholes Periodontics and Implants, 595 N Dobson Rd #34, Chandler, AZ 85224 \ (480) 786-0940 \ scholesperio.com \ 1/14/2026 \ Page Terms:Dental Implants Chandler AZ \