If you’re considering repairing and protecting your smile, chances are you have heard about dental crowns in Atlanta a lot. Dental crowns can be either a temporary restoration or a permanent restoration, depending on your course of treatment. Knowing what the difference between the two is can help you feel informed to make a decision regarding your dental health.
What are Dental Restorations?
Dental restorations are used to replace or repair damaged teeth. Dental restorations or restoratives can replace or repair damage, restore function, enhance one’s appearance, and protect teeth from further issues. Some examples include fillings, crowns, bridges, and implants. A dentist in Atlanta would likely recommend restorations after a tooth (or teeth) is weakened from decay, injury, or everyday use (wear).
Exploring the Types of Dental Restorations
While there are many forms of restorations, each serves its purpose in helping keep your teeth healthy and strong. Fillings are indicated for cavities; bridges can replace missing teeth; crowns generally get placed over weakened teeth to protect them. Some can be permanent, and some are temporary restorations, also called temporary restoratives, that allow for short-term function while final treatment is ongoing. These temporary options help to reduce the risk of additional suffering and to maintain comfort during the interim period. Once the permanent restoration has been placed, your smile now has permanent strength and stability.
The Difference Between Temporary and Permanent Crowns
An important consideration in treatment planning is understanding the difference between permanent versus temporary crowns. Temporary crowns are designed to protect your tooth from damage, but only for a short duration, normally while the dental lab fabricates your permanent crown. Temporary crowns are a protection for your tooth, but are not meant to be long-lasting. A permanent crown is fabricated specifically for your mouth to restore strength and appearance and, generally, will last for many years.
How Long Do Temporary Dental Restorations Last?
Temporary restorations typically last anywhere between a few weeks and a few months, depending on how long your appointment timeline is. Even though they provide protection, a temporary dental restoration is not going to be as strong or durable as your permanent restoration, which is why it’s often prudent to follow up with your dentist and get your permanent crown placed as soon as it is ready. Your temporary restorations can loosen or break if you wear them for too long. You may also notice some staining or minor wear of the material over time. Because of these reasons, it’s essential to keep your appointments on schedule. Your smile will stay healthy and secure.
When Are Temporary Crowns Used?
A temporary crown is typically put into place after the dentist prepares your tooth for a permanent crown and has the main role of protecting your tooth from sensitivity and any damage until your crown is ready. Temporary crowns also allow you to chew without discomfort, or at least minimize discomfort, and can help maintain the natural arch of your bite. They also protect the exposed tooth from bacteria, which can result in an infection. Moreover, temporary crowns maintain the space for your permanent crown, allowing your dentist to properly fit it. If not, the tooth may move or become more sensitive, which could make the restoration more difficult to complete.
Benefits of Permanent Dental Restorations
Permanent crowns (and other longer-lasting dental restorations) have many advantages. Slightly changing the subject, here are some of the positive aspects of permanent dental restorations:
- A strong, protective covering for weakened or damaged teeth
- A natural look that will flow with your smile
- Possibility of longevity when cared for properly
- Less discomfort and better chewing ability
- Peace of mind and stability compared to a temporary restoration.
Do Temporary Crowns Feel Different?
Temporary Crownsare made from less durable materials. Therefore, they may feel somewhat different from your teeth. In addition, they may not fit as well as your final crown, and you may experience a slight bit of sensitivity. This will all pass fairly quickly, and once your permanent crown is delivered, you will see immediate improvement in comfort and fit. These crowns are meant to be temporary, so don’t be concerned if they don’t feel like a perfect fit. Please refrain from biting on sticky or hard foods when wearing temporary crowns. However, after your permanent crown is placed, you will notice the natural look of the tooth, a natural, smooth bite, and the stability that your temporary crowns can not provide.
Restore Your Smile with Moores Mill Dental
At Moores Mill Dental, we believe in the importance of a healthy, confident smile to maximize the enjoyment of life. Permanent and/or temporary crowns will both serve you well at different stages in your restoration and confidence. We will guide you through each step of the process and ensure your choices, from temporary crowns to petrified and pretty options, are in complete consultation with our team. Take the first step toward a stronger, healthier smile—schedule your visit with Moores Mill Dental today!
