When you visit a dental clinic in Red Deer to fix a broken tooth, you might hear about temporary and permanent fixes. It is very common to feel a bit confused about why you need two different versions of the same repair. Understanding the difference between these steps is the best way to know how your tooth will heal.
These parts are made to protect your smile at different times, making sure your final result looks real and stays strong for a very long time.
Why Do You Need A Short-Term Fix?
A temporary fix is like a placeholder. It keeps your tooth safe while a lab makes your final piece. If you are seeing a dentist near you for a big repair, they will put a temporary covering on the tooth to stop it from hurting. This short-term piece lets you eat and talk normally without feeling pain from cold air or food.
It also keeps your other teeth from moving out of place while you wait for your final tooth to be ready.
Common Ways To Fix Teeth
- Fillings: These are used to fix small holes from decay.
- Bridges: These fill a gap by holding onto the teeth next to it.
- Inlays: These fix damage that is too big for a simple filling.
- Veneers: These are thin covers for the front of your teeth.
Learning about the different types of dental restorations helps you see that some are just for a few weeks, while others are built to last for many years.
How Do The Two Types Of Covers Differ?
The main difference between temporary and permanent crowns is what they are made of. Temporary ones are usually made of plastic or metal and use a weak glue so they can be taken off easily. Permanent ones are made of high-quality porcelain or ceramic and use very strong glue.
This makes sure the final tooth matches your smile perfectly and won’t break when you eat crunchy foods.
When Are Temporary Crowns Used?
You might wonder exactly when temporary crowns are used during your treatment. They are almost always used for the two weeks between your first visit and your last one.
- After a Root Canal: To keep the tooth safe until the strong cap is ready.
- During Healing: To keep the area clean while a new implant settles in.
- For Emergencies: To cover a sharp, broken edge so it doesn’t hurt your tongue.
- While Waiting: To give you a tooth to chew on while the lab builds your custom porcelain one.
Comparison Of The Two Fixes
|
Feature |
Temporary Fix |
Permanent Fix |
|
Material |
Plastic or acrylic | Porcelain or ceramic |
|
Main Goal |
Protection for now | Strength for years |
|
Glue |
Weak (easy to remove) | Very strong (stays put) |
|
Look |
Good, but basic | Looks just like a real tooth |
|
Fit |
Simple fit | Custom-made for your bite |
How Long Do Temporary Dental Restorations Last?
A common question is how long temporary dental restorations last before they need to be replaced. These pieces are usually meant to stay on for about two to three weeks. Because the glue is weak, they can pop off if you eat sticky things like gum or candy.
It is very important to come back for your final appointment as soon as it is ready so your tooth stays healthy.
Why Is The Final Tooth Better?
The benefits of permanent dental restorations are about much more than just looking good. These pieces are made to be part of your mouth for ten to twenty years.
- No Stains: Modern porcelain does not change color from coffee or tea.
- Full Strength: You can eat all your favorite foods without fear.
- Very Comfortable: They are shaped to fit your bite, so your jaw feels relaxed.
- Easy to Clean: The smooth surface is easy to brush and keep healthy.
Taking Care Of Your Tooth During The Fix
- Floss Carefully: When you have a temporary tooth, pull the floss out from the side instead of popping it up.
- Avoid Sticky Food: Stay away from hard or gummy snacks that could pull the temporary piece off.
- Salt Water: Use a warm salt water rinse to keep your gums calm and clean.
- Watch Your Bite: If the temporary tooth feels too tall when you close your mouth, call the office for a quick fix.
Finalizing Your Healthy Smile
At Delta Dental, we want to make sure your tooth repair is easy and comfortable. From the first day we protect your tooth to the day you get your final smile back, we are here for you. We use the best materials to make sure your teeth stay strong and look great for a long time.
If you have a broken tooth or just have questions, we are happy to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can fix your smile!
FAQs
- What if my temporary crown falls off?
Don’t worry, but try to put it back with a tiny bit of toothpaste. Call the office right away so they can glue it back on properly and keep your tooth safe. - Can I just keep the temporary one forever?
No, because the material is not strong enough for long-term use. Bacteria can get under the weak glue and cause a new cavity on the tooth you are trying to save. - Do the permanent ones look real?
Yes, they are made to match the exact color and shape of your other teeth. Most people will never know that you even had a tooth fixed. - Does it hurt to get the permanent one?
Usually, it does not hurt, and you don’t even need a needle. They just take off the temporary one, clean the tooth, and glue the new one on.
