Sometimes, a tooth can crack or decay enough to weaken it permanently. Instead of pulling the tooth, a dentist may cover it with a crown. People often need different dental crown types at various stages of the restoration process, so what is the difference between a temporary crown vs. a permanent crown?
If you’re looking for a family dentist in New Orleans to protect a damaged tooth, Dental Arts of New Orleans can help. Here, we explain what you should know about temporary and permanent dental crowns to help you decide which one may be best for you in the long term.
Temporary Crown vs. Permanent Crown: Here’s What You Should Know
Dental crowns are caps that protect damaged, decayed, or weak teeth. They also restore the appearance and function of the affected teeth because they are sturdy, natural-looking, and bonded in place. There are two primary dental crown types: temporary and permanent.
A temporary dental crown is a short-term option to protect a problematic tooth. It takes several weeks for dental labs to make custom dental crown prostheses, so patients wear short-term “plastic” crowns while they wait.
If a person needs a permanent crown, they must first use a temporary one which the dentist crafts in the office. The permanent crown placement process involves taking a mold impression of the mouth to fabricate a custom crown in a dental lab. When the permanent crown returns from the lab, the dentist then removes the temporary crown, affixes the new one over the damaged tooth, and permanently bonds it into place.
So, if people can use a temporary crown, why would they need a permanent one? Keep reading to learn about temporary crowns vs. permanent crowns and their differences.
Dental Crown Materials
Dentists can make short-term dental crowns in various materials, but composite resin and acrylic are the most popular options. These materials are natural-looking and blend well with natural teeth. For molars, a dentist may recommend metal because it can handle the pressure of chewing food.
Since permanent crowns should last longer than temporary ones, their materials are more durable. They include:
- Metal (Gold, Zirconia)
- Porcelain Fused to Metal
- Ceramic/Porcelain
Crown Longevity Comparison
The big difference between temporary and permanent crowns is longevity. The short-term option is usually good for about 12 weeks. Although the dentist will temporarily cement it in place, the adhesion is not strong enough to last longer than that.
On the other hand, a long-term dental crown can last from five to 20 years. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups increase the prosthetic’s longevity and durability.
Why Temporary Dental Crowns Are Necessary
If you’re restoring a chipped tooth, undergoing a root canal, or experiencing dental decay, you’ll need a temporary crown. While it’s in place, the cap will protect the tooth and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting.
Benefits of Having a Permanent Dental Cap
A short-term crown isn’t something you’ll have to wear for a long time. In fact, you’ll only wear it while waiting for your custom replacement tooth.
With a permanent dental crown, you won’t have to worry about wearing an uncomfortable prosthesis; it will be a custom fit. It will perfectly blend in since dentists use advanced color-matching to develop a perfect match to your natural teeth. They’re also more durable, stronger, and longer-lasting, allowing you to chew, bite, and speak for years without problems.
Makeover Your Smile With Help From Dental Arts of New Orleans
At Dental Arts of New Orleans, we practice family and cosmetic dentistry, so we are knowledgeable about tooth restoration crowns. Our experienced, board-certified dentists can help you determine which treatments will work best to restore your smile, protect your oral health, and accommodate your lifestyle.
Our experts can further explain what to expect with a temporary crown vs. a permanent crown or what to do if your existing dental crown falls off. Call Dental Arts of New Orleans today at (504) 394-5330 to schedule an appointment.
