Still Wearing a Temporary Crown. How Long Will It Last?

I got a temporary crown three weeks ago. I saw my dentist last Thursday, and he re-cemented it back on. He doesn’t like me asking questions, but I want to know what in the world we are waiting for? Where is the permanent crown? How long do temporary crowns last? In two weeks, I will travel to Minnesota for family business. I don’t want to end up with an emergency dental appointment while away. –  Trey W.

Trey –

Thank you for your question. Dr. Thomas would need to examine your crown and its condition to estimate how long it will last. But we will explain some basics about temporary crowns.

How Long Does a Temporary Dental Crown Last?

How long a temporary dental crown lasts depends on whether it’s a routine temporary crown or a customized temporary crown made of semi-durable plastic materials. A typical crown can last several weeks. A customized crown can last a year or longer.

Your dentist will need to explain when you will receive your final crown. If you feel uneasy about whether your dentist sent impressions of your teeth and instructions to lab to make your crown, ask specific questions about the status of your new crown.

Consider Getting a Second Opinion

Your dentist may have a good reason for delaying your final crown. Maybe the lab did not make it correctly, or your dentist has another issue with the crown. Still, you deserve an answer. If you are dissatisfied with your dentist’s response, consider getting a second opinion from an advanced cosmetic dentist. Ask your current dentist for digital copies of your dental records and x-rays and send them to the second-opinion dentist.

Your family members or their acquaintances may be able to recommend a reliable cosmetic dentist. If you have an issue with the crown while out of town, look for a dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training. Check patient reviews and the dentist’s website to read about their credentials. You can also look for a smile gallery of patient photos to help you choose a dentist.

Best wishes.

Dr. Siny Thomas, a Sugar Land, Texas cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.