What to Eat (and to Avoid) to Protect Your Temporary Crown

If you have a temporary crown to protect your tooth while you wait for your permanent dental crown to be made, it’s smart to think about what you can and can’t eat. Certain foods may jeopardize the temporary crown's integrity, but plenty of delicious foods can keep it safe until you get your permanent crown. 

The experts at Hometown Family Dental Centers in Fayetteville, Raeford, and Vass, North Carolina, can help you say goodbye to damaged or misshapen teeth with long-lasting, beautiful results. Crowns can protect a tooth as well as improve its color and shape.

When getting a crown, your dentist takes an impression of your teeth and sends it to a lab that creates your custom crown. While you wait, we provide you with a temporary crown that protects your prepared tooth. Here are our helpful tips about the foods you can eat and those you should avoid while you have a temporary crown.

Foods to eat with a temporary crown

If you recently got a temporary crown, you may wonder what foods you can safely eat without damaging your new dental work. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. 

Soft, cooked vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and zucchini are great choices, as are mashed or roasted potatoes. You can also enjoy lean meats like chicken or fish if they’re well-cooked and cut into smaller pieces. Have yogurt or eggs for breakfast, skipping the crunchy granolas and cereals for now.

Foods to avoid with a temporary crown

While temporary crowns can be a nuisance, caring for them is crucial to ensure your dental health. It's important to be mindful of the foods you consume during your temporary crown period, as certain foods can cause damage to the crown, cause it to come loose, or worsen any discomfort you may be experiencing. 

Foods to avoid include hard, crunchy, or chewy items such as popcorn, nuts, and hard candy. Avoid sticky foods like caramel, toffee, and chewing gum. Also steer clear of anything too hot or cold, as your tooth beneath the temporary crown may be more sensitive to extreme temperatures. 

Tips for eating with a temporary crown

Your temporary crown isn’t meant for you to wear long-term, so the material isn’t as strong and it uses a different adhesive than a permanent one. It’s best to be a little cautious in the short wait for the lab to complete your crown. Opt for softer foods that don't require as much pressure to chew. Avoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge the crown. 

Cut your food into smaller pieces to make chewing easier, and don't chew on the crown side of your mouth. Take your time while eating, and be gentle. Following these simple tips, you can ensure your temporary crown stays in place until your permanent one arrives.

You don't need to follow an overly strict diet when wearing a temporary crown. Eating the right foods and sticking to a consistent home care routine is essential for maintaining your tooth's health. Brush carefully around that tooth, and avoid flossing on either side of the temporary crown. 

Call Hometown Family Dental Centers immediately if you experience discomfort or the crown becomes loose or falls out unexpectedly. Taking these precautions can help ensure your temporary crown provides ample protection for your tooth until your permanent restoration is complete.