Temporary vs Permanent Dental Crowns: What Is the Difference?
If you have been told you need a dental crown, you may have heard your dentist mention a temporary crown being placed first. This can sometimes lead to confusion — why do you need two crowns? What is the difference between them? And do you have to be careful with the temporary one?
Understanding the role of each stage in the dental crown process helps to set realistic expectations and ensures you take good care of your tooth between appointments. This article explains how temporary and permanent crowns differ, what they are each made from, and what you should know to protect your tooth throughout the treatment process.
Why Is a Temporary Crown Used at All?
When your dentist prepares a tooth for a crown, they remove a layer of the outer tooth structure to create space for the crown to fit over it. This leaves the prepared tooth smaller than it was and, without any covering, it would be vulnerable to temperature sensitivity, damage, and bacterial attack.
A temporary crown serves several important purposes during the waiting period between your two appointments:
- It protects the prepared tooth from hot, cold, and pressure sensitivity
- It prevents food and bacteria from getting into the prepared tooth
- It maintains the shape and spacing of the gap so neighbouring teeth do not shift
- It allows you to chew reasonably normally while waiting for the permanent crown
- It gives you and your dentist a preview of the general appearance and shape of the final result
What Is a Temporary Crown Made From?
Temporary crowns are typically made from acrylic resin or composite materials. They are fabricated in the dental surgery — sometimes using a mould of your tooth taken before preparation, or shaped freehand — and cemented with a temporary, weaker dental cement. This weaker cement is intentional; it allows the temporary crown to be removed easily at the second appointment without damaging the prepared tooth underneath.
Because they are made from less robust materials and secured with weaker cement, temporary crowns are not designed to last. They are functional for a few weeks but should be treated with care.
Caring for a Temporary Crown
During the period between appointments, it is wise to take a few precautions with your temporary crown:
- Avoid sticky or chewy foods such as toffees, chewing gum, or dried fruit — these can pull the temporary crown off
- Avoid biting on very hard foods on the side of the temporary crown
- When flossing, slide the floss out sideways rather than lifting it upwards, to avoid dislodging the crown
- If the temporary crown comes off, contact your dentist promptly — do not leave the prepared tooth unprotected
What Is a Permanent Crown Made From?
Permanent crowns are fabricated to a far higher standard using durable, high-quality materials chosen for their strength, aesthetics, and longevity. The most common materials include:
- All-ceramic or zirconia: Highly aesthetic and very strong; the most popular choice for visible teeth
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): A ceramic outer layer over a metal base; strong and natural-looking
- Gold alloy: Extremely durable; often used for back teeth where strength is paramount
- Base metal alloy: Strong and less costly than gold; occasionally used for back teeth
Permanent crowns are cemented with a strong, permanent dental adhesive and are designed to last many years with proper care.
Temporary vs Permanent Crown: Key Differences
| Feature | Temporary Crown | Permanent Crown |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Acrylic or composite resin | Ceramic, zirconia, PFM, or gold |
| Cement used | Temporary (weak) cement | Permanent dental adhesive |
| Durability | A few weeks only | 8-15 years or more |
| Appearance | Approximate match | Closely matched to natural teeth |
| Purpose | Protect tooth while lab makes permanent crown | Long-term restoration |
| Fabricated by | Dentist in surgery | Dental laboratory (or CEREC in-surgery) |
What Happens When the Permanent Crown Is Fitted?
At your second appointment, your dentist will gently remove the temporary crown and clean the prepared tooth. The permanent crown is then tried in to check the fit, shape, and shade before being cemented permanently in place. Your dentist will ask you to bite down on a piece of special paper to assess your bite, making fine adjustments to ensure the crown sits correctly and does not interfere with your natural bite pattern.
It is common to experience mild sensitivity or awareness of the crown for a few days after fitting. This usually settles quickly. If you notice that your bite feels uneven — for instance, the crown feels too high when you close your teeth — contact your dentist, as a minor adjustment can correct this easily.
How Long Do Permanent Crowns Last?
According to NHS dental treatment guidance, a properly cared-for crown or veneer should normally last around 8 to 10 years. In practice, many crowns — particularly those made from high-quality ceramics or gold — last significantly longer. NHS crowns also carry a 12-month guarantee: if a crown needs to be repaired or replaced within 12 months of fitting, this is done at no additional charge.
What If the Temporary Crown Falls Off?
If your temporary crown becomes loose or falls off entirely, do not panic, but do act promptly. Contact your dental practice as soon as possible. The prepared tooth underneath is sensitive and needs to be protected. Your dentist will either recement the temporary crown or, if the second appointment is imminent, may be able to bring it forward. In the meantime, avoid eating on that side of your mouth and try to keep the area clean.
You can temporarily reattach a fallen temporary crown using dental cement available from most pharmacies, or even a small amount of toothpaste as a very short-term measure — but this is not a substitute for professional attention.
If you have any questions about the crown process or would like to book a consultation, our team at Gorgie Road Dental Practice is here to help. We are always happy to explain each stage of treatment clearly and ensure you feel fully informed and comfortable throughout. Give us a call on 0131 337 3936 and we will be glad to assist.