Temporary crown

A temporary crown is a provisional, short term restoration used in dentistry. Usually the temporary crown is constructed from a chemical-cure composite, although alternative systems using aluminium crown forms are occasionally used by older practitioners. The temporary material is shaped by the dentist to form a tooth shape that protects the prepared tooth, prevents damage to the periodontal tissues (gums) and disguises the prepared tooth to a degree until the final, definitive restoration can be made by a dental technician.

A temporary crown will usually be cemented in place with a soft temporary dental cement, such as Temp-Bond NE. This allows easy removal when fitting the definitve restoration.

If a temporary crown becomes decemented, it is important that a dentist examines the patient as overeruption of the opposing teeth may prevent accurate fitting of the final crown.