Getting a dental crown is a common procedure at Woodland Dental Center. But between your first and second appointments, you’ll wear a temporary crown. Knowing what to eat, how to clean it, and what to do if it falls off in Puyallup will make this phase much easier. Dr. Hanks and our team want you to feel confident every step of the way.
Temporary crowns protect your prepared tooth while your permanent crown is being crafted. They’re made from acrylic or composite material — not as strong as your final restoration. That’s why caring for your temporary crown matters more than most patients expect.
What to Eat While Wearing Your Temporary Crown in Puyallup
Your diet is the single biggest factor in keeping your temporary crown intact. The cement holding it in place is designed to be temporary. That means it’s more vulnerable to sticky, hard, and crunchy foods than a permanent crown would be.
Dr. Hanks recommends sticking to soft foods throughout this phase. Think yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soup, and soft fish. These options put very little pressure on your temporary crown.
Foods to avoid while wearing your temporary crown:
- Sticky candies, caramel, and chewing gum
- Hard foods like raw carrots, nuts, and crusty bread
- Chewy meats such as steak or jerky
- Ice — never chew on it
- Popcorn and hard chips
- Very hot or very cold beverages if you have sensitivity
Try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth when possible. This simple habit reduces stress on the temporary crown significantly. Even soft foods can dislodge the crown if you chew directly on it repeatedly.
Avoiding these foods isn’t forever. Your permanent crown appointment is typically just two to three weeks away. A short-term diet adjustment protects your investment and prevents unexpected dental visits.
How to Clean Your Temporary Crown Safely
Good oral hygiene doesn’t stop because you have a temporary crown. In fact, keeping the area clean is essential for gum health. Bacteria can still accumulate around the crown margin and cause irritation.
Brush gently around the temporary crown using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use gentle, circular motions rather than aggressive back-and-forth scrubbing. Standard fluoride toothpaste works perfectly fine for this purpose.
Step-by-step cleaning tips for your temporary crown:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss daily — but slide the floss out sideways instead of pulling up
- Pulling floss upward can lift the temporary crown off the tooth
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse without irritating gum tissue
- Avoid water flossers set to high pressure near the temporary crown
Flossing correctly is critical. Many patients accidentally dislodge their temporary crown by flossing too aggressively. Always slide the floss gently to the side rather than snapping it upward when removing it from between teeth.
If you notice any sensitivity while brushing, use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Mild sensitivity around a prepared tooth is normal. However, sharp or prolonged pain should prompt a call to our Puyallup office right away.
What to Do If Your Temporary Crown Falls Off
A temporary crown falling off is one of the most common calls we receive at Woodland Dental Center. It can feel alarming, but it’s usually not a dental emergency. Knowing what to do next will keep you calm and your tooth protected.
First, don’t panic. Locate the crown and rinse it gently with water. Keep it somewhere safe — you may be able to recement it temporarily at home until you can see Dr. Hanks.
You can find dental cement or denture adhesive at most pharmacies in Puyallup. Clean the inside of the crown and your tooth, then apply a small amount of the adhesive. Gently seat the crown back over your tooth. Bite down softly to ensure it seats properly.
Contact our office as soon as possible after replacing it at home. A temporary fix is not a permanent solution. Dr. Hanks will reseat the crown properly and check that your tooth is still protected.
If the crown is broken or you cannot locate it, call us right away. An exposed prepared tooth is sensitive and vulnerable to damage. In some cases, a lost or broken temporary crown may need Emergency Dental Care Puyallup patients can rely on from our experienced team.
Signs that warrant an urgent call to our office include:
- Sharp pain when the crown is off and exposed to air or temperature
- Visible damage to the tooth underneath the crown
- Bleeding around the prepared tooth
- The crown feels cracked or broken beyond use
How Long Will You Wear a Temporary Crown?
Most patients wear their temporary crown for two to three weeks. This gives our dental lab enough time to craft your permanent crown with precision. At Woodland Dental Center, we work with skilled labs to ensure an accurate fit and natural appearance.
Your permanent crown is custom-designed to match your surrounding teeth. The shade, shape, and size are all carefully selected. This process takes time, which is why the temporary phase exists.
Some patients need slightly longer if adjustments are required by the lab. Dr. Hanks will give you a realistic timeline at your first appointment. We always aim to minimize the wait while maximizing the quality of your final result.
While you wait, follow all care instructions provided by our team. Avoid the foods listed above and clean gently twice daily. Most patients move through the temporary phase without any issues when they follow these simple guidelines.
If you’re having your crown placed as part of a smile transformation, you may also be curious about other options. Many patients pair crown treatment with Cosmetic Dentistry Puyallup services like veneers for a complete smile refresh.
When to Call Woodland Dental Center in Puyallup
Most temporary crown issues are minor and manageable at home. However, some situations do require professional attention sooner rather than later. Our team is always here to guide you through any concerns during this phase.
Call Dr. Hanks’ office if you experience any of the following:
- The temporary crown falls off and cannot be replaced at home
- You notice swelling or redness around the crown
- Pain is increasing rather than staying mild and manageable
- The bite feels significantly off or uneven after the crown was placed
- You develop a bad taste near the crown that persists
We always welcome questions from our Puyallup patients. No concern is too small when it comes to protecting your dental health. Our friendly team at Woodland Dental Center will help you decide whether you need to come in right away or wait for your scheduled appointment.
Remember, the temporary crown phase is just that — temporary. Your permanent restoration will be strong, beautiful, and built to last for many years with proper care.
Conclusion: You’ve Got This — And We’ve Got You
Wearing a temporary crown doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right foods, gentle cleaning habits, and a clear plan if it falls off, most Puyallup patients move through this phase smoothly. Dr. Hanks and the entire team at Woodland Dental Center are committed to supporting you at every stage of your crown treatment. Book Now to schedule your appointment with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a temporary crown usually stay in place?
Most temporary crowns remain in place for two to three weeks. They’re secured with weaker cement than permanent crowns. Following food and cleaning guidelines helps ensure they stay put until your permanent crown is ready.
Can I eat normally with a temporary crown?
You should avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods while wearing a temporary crown. Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side when possible. This reduces the risk of dislodging the crown before your permanent restoration is placed.
Is it safe to floss around a temporary crown?
Yes, flossing is safe and recommended around a temporary crown. The key is to slide the floss out sideways rather than pulling it upward. Pulling the floss up can lift the temporary crown off the tooth.
What happens if my temporary crown falls off at night or on a weekend?
If your temporary crown falls off, rinse it and try to seat it back using dental cement or denture adhesive from a pharmacy. Contact Woodland Dental Center as soon as possible to have it properly recemented by Dr. Hanks.
Will my tooth hurt without the temporary crown on?
An exposed prepared tooth can feel sensitive to air, temperature, and pressure. This is because the enamel has been shaped and the nerve is closer to the surface. Replacing the crown promptly and calling our Puyallup office will help you avoid prolonged discomfort.
