Dental crowns are a common dental restoration used to cover and protect damaged teeth. They come in two main types: temporary and permanent. Understanding the differences between these two types can help you make informed decisions about your dental care. Here, we’ll explore the key differences, benefits, and considerations for temporary and permanent dental crowns in Saskatoon.
Understanding Dental Crown
A dental crown acts like a protective cap over a tooth. It becomes necessary to place a crown when a tooth is broken, weak, has a cavity, or has other problems. Dentists place crowns on teeth to safeguard and maintain their functioning.
Crowns are made from materials such as metal, porcelain, or both. The choice of material depends on where the tooth is in your mouth and how much pressure it will need to handle when you chew.
What is a Temporary Dental Crown?
A temporary dental crown is for a short time and is usually fitted by a dentist until a permanent crown is made. Temporary crowns are not as strong as permanent ones, but they protect your tooth and help you eat and talk as normally as possible until your permanent crown is placed.
Why are Temporary Crown is Required?
Following are a few reasons your dentist may recommend a temporary crown:
- Allow you to eat and speak normally: Without a temporary crown, it might be hard to chew food or talk properly. Crowns for teeth play an essential role in maintaining normal function during this time.
- Protect the tooth: Until a permanent crown is made, a temporary crown is placed on the tooth to protect it.
- Keep the tooth in place: Sometimes the tooth might shift if it is not covered. A temporary crown keeps the tooth in its place.
What is a Permanent Dental Crown?
A permanent dental crown is made to last for many years and protects the tooth while helping you chew and speak comfortably. Permanent crowns, including a porcelain crown, are carefully made to fit your tooth. The dentist will make a mould of your tooth to ensure that the crown fits perfectly. Permanent crowns are made of strong materials such as porcelain, metal, or a combination of both, and they are tough enough to take the pressure from chewing.
Why are Permanent Crowns Needed?
- Strengthen a weak tooth: If your tooth is broken or has a large filling, a crown can keep it together and prevent further harm.
- Restore a broken tooth: A crown can fix a tooth that is broken or worn down, making it look and work like a natural tooth again.
- Cover a dental implant: If you have a dental implant, then a crown is placed on top of it to act like a real tooth.
- Improve appearance: Crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are discoloured or uneven.
Key Differences Between Temporary and Permanent Crowns
| Temporary Crown | Permanent Crown | |
| Material Used | These crowns are made of plastic or acrylic. They are not as strong, but they are good for protecting a tooth for a short time. | These crowns are made from metal, porcelain, or both. They are created to last
long-term and withstand the pressure of chewing. |
| Durability | Since these are made of weaker materials, they are more prone to breaking or becoming loose. They offer temporary options until the permanent crown is prepared. | These are strong and can last longer. A permanent crown can last for many years, even for a lifetime, if properly maintained. |
| Purpose | Protect your tooth and hold it in place while the permanent crown is being prepared. | These are designed to permanently restore your tooth’s function and appearance. |
| Fitting | They are created quickly and may not fit your teeth completely. They can be uncomfortable, but they serve their purpose for a short period. | These are custom-made to fit your tooth. Your dentist will pay particular attention to ensuring it is a good fit and that the tooth is comfortable inside the mouth. |
Taking Care of Your Crowns
Whether it is a temporary or permanent crown, it requires care to maintain its optimal condition. Gently brush and floss your teeth, being careful around the tooth with the crown. Also, avoid the consumption of hard or sticky foods that may affect your crown. If your temporary crown becomes loose or breaks, contact your dentist as soon as possible to restore the crown to protect your tooth.
Preserve Your Tooth with Quality Dental Crowns at Meadows Dental!
Meadows Dental focuses on creating a comfortable and relaxed environment so patients have a positive dental experience. We offer comprehensive services, including checkups, dental implants, dental crowns, and more, to restore your teeth’s functionality and appearance. If you have any questions, our team dentist in Saskatoon is here to help. Contact us today for answers and guidance on your dental care!