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Writer's pictureDavid Chen, DDS

How Long Does A Temporary Crown Last?

Updated: Apr 28, 2023

Temporary crowns can last around 4 weeks depending on the type of temporary material that it is made out of. The two most common types of temporary crown material are bisacryl composite and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). They each have their own pros and cons but as their names imply, they're not meant to be permanent because they're a temporary material.


temporary crowns
temporary crowns

Table of Contents:


Which temporary crown material lasts longer?

The temporary crowns made out of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) have a tendency to be sturdier and also last much longer than the bisacryl composites. The material is harder and stiffer than the bisacryl.


The manufacturing instructions for one of the brands of PMMA (Jet Acrylic) specifically says that the intended purpose is to remain in the mouth for less than 30 days.


Due to the strength of the PMMA, most dentists will use it for multi-unit dental crown cases but will opt for the bisacryl if it is a single or two unit crown. The reason why we use the stronger temporary for more crowns is because the strength is needed.


The single or two unit cases don't require as much strength so we opt to use the less resilient bisacryl. The preference is for the bisacryl whenever possible because it looks better cosmetically. This specific brand of material is by Luxatemp, which is very popular with dentists and also one which we personally use. They really do look great!



Can the temporary crowns last longer than 4 weeks?

Despite the manufacturer's instructions stating that the material should only be in the mouth for 30 days, we have seen the PMMA material last much longer than that. For the multi-unit full mouth reconstruction cases where you literally replace every single tooth, the temporary material of choice is PMMA. These temps can sometimes be in the mouth for as long as a few months.


custom lab made temporary crowns
custom lab made temporary crowns

The bisacryl temporary material would never be used for a full mouth reconstruction case because it doesn't quite have the strength for it. This material will last probably as long as the manufacturer states, the 4 weeks max.



Takeaway

There isn't one temporary crown material that is "better" than the other but rather they both have their own uses. That is why most dental offices keep both of them in stock at all times. Depending on how long we need the temporary crown to last will determine which material we pick.


With that being said, each dentist will have their own preference for what they like to use as well. If you ever wanted to know, you can always ask your own dentist!


Last but not least, don't forget that you HAVE to return to your dentist to get the permanent crown. Some people never return for whatever reason...



Author: Written by Dr David Chen DDS, a restorative dentist in long island city.



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About the author: Dr David Chen, DDS

Hello, I'm Dr Chen and I'm an actively practicing dentist in Long Island City, NY. I graduated from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in 2016 but prior to going to dental school I was already working in the dental field. It's been more than a decade since I first got to know dentistry and let me tell you, time flies by quickly. Since then I've developed a fondness for writing, which is how this all got started!

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Medical Disclaimer:

This blog is purely meant for information purposes and should not be used as medical advice. Each situation in your mouth is unique and complex. It is not possible to give advice nor diagnose any oral conditions based on text nor virtual consultations. The best thing to do is to go in person to see your dentist for an examination and consultation so that you can receive the best care possible.

The purpose of all of this oral health information is to encourage you to see your dentist and to inform you of what you may expect during your visit. Due to the unfortunate nature of dentistry, there isn't really any true home remedies that will get rid of dental problems. Roughly 99.99% of them require in-person intervention by a healthcare professional.

Hint: That is the reason why you can't eliminate seeing dentists in your life!

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