Getting a temporary crown is a common part of the dental procedure for a permanent crown. But the question many patients have is: can you eat with a temporary crown? The short answer is yes, but with caution. A temporary crown, while designed to protect the tooth, is significantly less durable than a permanent crown. Understanding its limitations and how to care for it while you wait for your permanent restoration is key.
What is a Temporary Crown?
Before we dive into dietary restrictions, let's clarify what a temporary crown is. It's a temporary, often acrylic or plastic, covering placed over a prepared tooth while you wait for the lab to create your permanent crown. It's designed to protect the tooth from damage, sensitivity, and debris, but it's not built to withstand the same forces as a permanent crown.
What Can I Eat With a Temporary Crown?
While you can eat with a temporary crown, it's crucial to be mindful of what you consume. Avoid these foods and drinks:
- Hard Foods: This is the most crucial point. Stay away from hard candies, nuts, ice, popcorn kernels, and anything else that could potentially crack or dislodge your temporary crown. The forces involved in biting into hard items can easily damage or even detach the temporary restoration.
- Sticky Foods: Sticky foods like caramel, taffy, chewing gum, and certain candies can pull the temporary crown loose. The adhesive used for the temporary crown is not as strong as the cement used for a permanent one.
- Extremely Hot or Cold Foods and Drinks: These can cause sensitivity or discomfort in the tooth underneath the temporary crown. While a permanent crown often protects against this, the temporary crown offers less protection.
- Chewy Foods: Very chewy foods like tough meats, bagels, and even some bread can put excessive strain on the temporary crown. It's best to opt for softer alternatives.
What Foods Are Safe to Eat With a Temporary Crown?
Focus on soft, easily chewed foods to protect your temporary crown. Good options include:
- Soft cooked vegetables: Mashed potatoes, steamed carrots, and well-cooked greens are great choices.
- Soups and stews: Broths and well-cooked ingredients are ideal for avoiding any unnecessary strain.
- Yogurt and pudding: These provide smooth, easy-to-eat options.
- Soft fruits: Applesauce, bananas, and well-ripened peaches are better alternatives to hard fruits.
- Scrambled eggs and other soft proteins: These are less likely to cause damage to the temporary crown.
How Long Does a Temporary Crown Last?
Temporary crowns typically last for several weeks, giving the dental lab enough time to craft your permanent crown. However, this timeframe can vary. If your temporary crown comes loose or falls out before your scheduled appointment, contact your dentist immediately.
What Happens if My Temporary Crown Falls Out?
If your temporary crown falls out, don't panic. Contact your dentist immediately to schedule an appointment. In the meantime, you can try to temporarily store the crown in a container with a bit of milk or saline solution to keep it moist. However, avoid attempting to reattach it yourself.
Can a Temporary Crown Affect My Speech?
Some patients experience a slight change in their speech patterns with a temporary crown, especially initially. This is typically temporary and adjusts as you become accustomed to the presence of the crown.
Is it Normal to Feel Sensitivity with a Temporary Crown?
Some degree of sensitivity is common with temporary crowns, particularly to temperature changes. This typically subsides after the permanent crown is fitted. However, if the sensitivity is severe or persistent, contact your dentist.
Remember, following these guidelines will help protect your temporary crown and ensure a smooth transition to your permanent restoration. Your dentist is the best resource for advice specific to your situation. Always contact them if you have any concerns or experience any issues with your temporary crown.
