Dental care is about more than keeping your teeth clean, it helps maintain your overall health and comfort. A healthy mouth supports clear speech, proper chewing, and self-confidence. When a tooth becomes damaged or decayed, it can cause pain and affect nearby teeth if ignored. In such cases, a dental crown, also known as a cap, is used to restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance.

At Al Salam Health, we have over 30 years of experience providing dental and medical care in Al Ain. Our team uses the latest technology and modern techniques for dental treatments. From routine checkups and cleanings to restorative and cosmetic procedures, we focus on maintaining oral health.

 

Understanding Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength while improving its appearance. It is commonly used for cracked teeth, teeth that have undergone a root canal, or teeth with large fillings that reduce their strength. 

Crowns come in different types, each suited for specific needs. The choice of crown depends on the tooth’s location, the balance between appearance and function, and cost considerations.

 

Temporary Dental Crowns

Temporary dental crowns are protective coverings placed over a prepared tooth while a permanent crown is being made. Typically made from acrylic or resin, they are secured with temporary cement.

These crowns protect the tooth from damage, sensitivity, and infection while maintaining the proper space and alignment for the final restoration. They also allow you to eat, speak, and maintain normal function comfortably until the permanent crown is in place.

 

Permanent Dental Crowns 

Permanent dental crowns are restorations for damaged or weakened teeth and are made to provide long-term function. Unlike temporary crowns, they are made from durable materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or zirconia.

These crowns restore the tooth’s strength and function. They are securely bonded to the tooth with strong dental cement, allowing normal chewing and speaking. With proper care and good oral hygiene, permanent crowns can last 5 to 15 years or longer, depending on lifestyle and dental habits.

 

What Is the Difference Between Temporary and Permanent Crowns?

Knowing the difference between temporary and permanent crowns helps patients make informed decisions about their dental care.

 

Feature	Temporary Crown	Permanent Crown
Purpose	Protects the tooth for a short period while the permanent crown is made	Provides a durable, long-term restoration
Material	Made from acrylic or resin	Made from porcelain, metal, zirconia, or ceramic
Adhesive	Fixed using a removable cement	Bonded with a strong, permanent adhesive
Durability	Short-term use; not suitable for strong chewing	Built to withstand daily wear for many years
Aesthetics	May not perfectly match natural teeth	Custom-matched for a natural appearance

 

 

Why Should You Not Skip the Temporary Crown Phase?

Some patients may consider skipping the temporary crown stage, but it is essential for proper treatment. Temporary crowns protect the prepared tooth from sensitivity, bacteria, and shifting. Without a temporary crown, the exposed tooth can become painful or develop an infection.

 

How Can You Care for Dental Crowns?

Proper care can help extend the life of both temporary and permanent dental crowns. Brush gently at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and floss carefully to prevent plaque buildup around the edges of the crown. Avoid biting hard items such as ice or nuts, as well as sticky foods that can loosen the crown or get stuck around its margin.

 

The Dental Crown Procedure 

Getting a dental crown usually requires two appointments. In the first visit, the dentist examines the tooth, removes any decay, shapes it to fit the crown, and takes an impression to create a custom crown. A temporary crown is placed over the tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is ready.

During the second visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is cemented securely onto the tooth.

 

Conclusion

 Temporary and permanent crowns are important steps in restoring a tooth. Temporary crowns protect the tooth and maintain its position while the permanent crown is being made. Permanent crowns restore the tooth’s strength, function, and appearance, allowing normal chewing and speaking.

At Al Salam Health, our team combines years of experience with modern techniques to provide quality dental care.

For appointments or inquiries, call +971 3 764 6510 or email newalsalam@alsalamhealth.ae.