Temporary crowns are designed to last 2-3 weeks—just long enough for your permanent crown to be made. They're not meant for long-term use, but with proper care, they'll do their job until your next appointment.
How Long Temporary Crowns Should Last
- 2-3 weeks is standard
- Some may be worn up to 6-8 weeks if needed
- Not designed for months of wear
Why they're temporary:
- Made of acrylic or resin (not as strong as permanent materials)
- Generic fit (not custom like permanent)
- Weaker cement (needs to come off easily)
- Not as precise aesthetically
What they're for:
- Protecting the prepared tooth
- Keeping the tooth in position
- Preventing sensitivity
- Allowing normal eating (with care)
Caring for Your Temporary Crown
- Chew on the opposite side when possible
- Avoid hard foods (nuts, ice, hard candy)
- Avoid sticky foods (caramel, taffy, gum)
- Be careful with crunchy foods
- Cut food into small pieces
Cleaning:
- Brush normally but gently
- Floss carefully—slide floss out sideways (don't snap up)
- Rinse with warm salt water if sensitive
What to avoid:
- Chewing gum
- Pulling on the temporary
- Very hot or cold foods if sensitive
- Using that tooth for tough foods
If Your Temporary Crown Falls Off
The temporary is placed with weak cement on purpose.
What to do immediately:
1. Save the temporary crown
2. Gently clean it
3. Clean the tooth underneath
Temporary fix:
- Buy temporary dental cement at any pharmacy
- Follow package directions
- Place the crown back on temporarily
- Call your dentist
Call your dentist for:
- Help getting it back on if you can't
- To schedule an earlier appointment if possible
- Especially if you can't get it to stay
Don't leave the tooth exposed:
The prepared tooth is vulnerable without protection. Cover it within 24 hours if possible.
Problems with Temporary Crowns
- Some sensitivity is normal
- Usually to cold more than hot
- Should be manageable with OTC pain relief
- See dentist if severe or worsening
Loose temporary:
- May feel wobbly
- Call dentist to have it re-cemented
- Don't ignore it
Temporary feels high:
- Bite feels off
- Hitting first when you close
- Call dentist for adjustment
Pain:
- Mild discomfort: normal
- Throbbing pain: call dentist
- Pain getting worse: call dentist
Can Temporary Crowns Last Longer?
Sometimes the permanent crown takes longer or needs to be remade. Temporaries can last up to 6-8 weeks with careful use.
Long-term risks:
- More likely to fall off
- May wear down
- Can break
- Cement may fail
- Tooth underneath is less protected
If waiting extended time:
- Be extra careful with eating
- Keep follow-up appointments
- Report any problems immediately
- Consider having it re-cemented every 3-4 weeks
Key Takeaways
If your temporary falls off or causes problems, call your dentist. It's a common issue with an easy fix.
The temporary crown is a bridge to your permanent solution. Treat it gently, and it will do its job.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a temporary crown stay on?
Temporary crowns are designed for 2-3 weeks. They can last up to 6-8 weeks if necessary, but they're not intended for long-term wear. The longer they're worn, the more likely they are to fall off or break.
What do I do if my temporary crown falls off?
Save the crown, clean it and the tooth, and try to place it back using temporary dental cement (available at pharmacies). Call your dentist to get it properly re-cemented or schedule an earlier permanent crown appointment.
Can I eat with a temporary crown?
Yes, but carefully. Avoid sticky foods, hard foods, and very hot or cold items if sensitive. Chew on the opposite side when possible and cut food into small pieces.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on Urgent Dental Helper is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is NOT intended to be a substitute for professional medical or dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a dental or medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
