Can You Chew on a Temporary Crown? A Comprehensive Guide
Temporary crowns, also known as provisional crowns, serve as placeholders while your permanent crown is being fabricated. While they protect your prepared tooth and maintain its shape, they are not as strong or durable as permanent crowns. This leads to the crucial question: can you chew on a temporary crown? The short answer is: it depends.
Let's delve deeper into the nuances of chewing with a temporary crown, addressing common concerns and providing helpful advice.
What are Temporary Crowns Made Of?
Temporary crowns are typically made from acrylic or a similar resin material. This material is significantly less durable than the porcelain or metal used in permanent crowns. They are designed to be temporary—hence the name—and are not built to withstand the same forces as your natural teeth.
Can I Chew on a Temporary Crown?
The answer isn't a simple yes or no. While you should avoid chewing forcefully or on hard foods with a temporary crown, some gentle chewing might be tolerable. The key is to limit the force and type of food.
Think of it like this: you wouldn't use a paper plate to eat a steak, right? A temporary crown is similar; it's not built for aggressive chewing.
What Happens if I Chew Too Hard on My Temporary Crown?
Chewing too hard or on excessively tough foods can lead to several problems:
- Crown Fracture or Displacement: The temporary crown can crack, break, or even become dislodged from your tooth.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Increased pressure on the prepared tooth can lead to sensitivity and discomfort.
- Infection: If the crown breaks or comes off, it exposes the prepared tooth, increasing the risk of infection.
- Further Damage: The underlying tooth structure might be damaged or weakened.
What Foods Should I Avoid with a Temporary Crown?
To maximize the lifespan and integrity of your temporary crown, steer clear of the following:
- Hard foods: Nuts, hard candies, ice, popcorn kernels, and anything requiring significant force to chew.
- Sticky foods: Caramel, taffy, and gum can pull or dislodge the crown.
- Chewy foods: Tough meats, bagels, and fibrous vegetables like raw carrots require considerable chewing pressure.
Instead, opt for soft foods like:
- Yogurt
- Scrambled eggs
- Soups
- Mashed potatoes
- Applesauce
- Soft cooked vegetables
How Long Does a Temporary Crown Last?
Temporary crowns usually last for a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on your individual situation and how well you care for them.
What Should I Do if My Temporary Crown Breaks or Falls Off?
If your temporary crown breaks, cracks, or falls off, contact your dentist immediately. Don't attempt to re-attach it yourself, as this could cause further damage. Your dentist can assess the situation and provide appropriate care.
Conclusion
While you might be able to tolerate some gentle chewing with a temporary crown, it's crucial to exercise caution and prioritize a soft food diet. Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods to prevent damage to the crown and underlying tooth. If any issues arise, contact your dentist promptly. Remember, the temporary crown is a temporary solution—preserve its integrity until your permanent crown is placed.
