Expert: Steven C. Scherr, D.D.S. - 3/27/2007

Question
My dentist put a temp crown on a tooth, ordered the permanent crown and now it may need a root canal before the permanent crown is attached. When I come back from the endodontist and the dentist has to put in a new core, will the permanent crown that was made originally still fit? Also, how long can one wear a temporary crown without any problems? My dentist wants to wait until all symptoms subside before putting on the permanent crown.

Answer
Kaitlyn,

Not to worry.  Your dentist can fabricate a core that will fit within the crown.  Even in the unlikely event that the fit of the crown were to be compromised, most dentists would remake the crown at no charge to the patient under the circumstances described.

The suggestion to hold off on placing the final crown until all symptoms subside is a wise one.  Should there be a need to re-enter the tooth, it won't be necessary to disturb the new crown and likely damage it.  A well made temporary crown can often last a number of months if needed.

Best wishes to you Kaitlyn.

Steve