When your dentist, Dr. Brandon Burger, repairs or restores a tooth with a dental crown in Hermitage, Tennessee, it often requires two distinct stages. The first stage of treatment involves removing the entire tooth enamel layer of the affected tooth. This forms an abutment from the core structures of the dentin, pulp, and root within. Then, he will form an impression that is sent to a dental lab where your final crown will be made.
While you await the second stage of treatment, he will cement a temporary crown over the abutment to protect it. It’s important to keep in mind that the hard plastic is only durable enough to protect the abutment, and it can’t restore the full function of the tooth.
It’s best to avoid chewing gum and eating sticky foods on that side of your mouth because it could potentially pull the temporary crown loose. You should also avoid biting, crunching, or grinding on hard foods in that area of your mouth. This could potentially crack the temporary crown and damage the abutment.
Your temporary crown also needs to be included in your daily oral routine. Healthy gums will help ensure that your new crown will fit comfortably in place. Make sure to brush the temporary crown twice and floss once each day.
If you’re having trouble working the strand of floss around the temporary crown, you might want to try using waxed floss. The waxy coating will allow the strand to slip between teeth and around the temporary crown easily.
If you are planning a crown restoration and you have questions about the process or maintaining a temporary crown in Hermitage, Tennessee, you can always call 615-889-8202 to talk to a staff member at Brandon Burger, DDS.