Expert: Mark Bornfeld DDS - 4/7/2007

Question
QUESTION: My endodontist wants to remove a molar crown, do the root canal, then replace the SAME temporary crown with permanent cement. I will be getting 2 implants done next to it and want to put ALL THREE permanent crowns in place at the same time. Will removing this temp crown cause damage at the bottom, I don't want leakage during this period.
ANSWER: Dear Renee,

There's a reason why they call them "temporary" crowns-- they often do not continue to serve reliably for all that long. If your dentists intend to proceed in the manner you describe, one of them will need to check the integrity of the temporary crown at least once a month, or more often if you feel that the crown is physically breaking down. It is essential that the crown continues to effectively seal out saliva and bacteria, so that neither decay nor failure of the root canal therapy will occur.

Hope this helps...

Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Will removing the crown damage its integrity at the bottom?
Will a permanent cement seal out bacteria better?

Answer
Dear Renee,

Temporary crowns are typically held in place with temporary cement, and it should not be necessary for your endodontist to use excessive force to remove it, so damage to the crown margin should not be a factor.

There is no question that permanent cement will seal more reliably than temporary cement, but even permanent cement can break down under a soft, flexible temporary crown that is exposed to chewing forces. That is why vigilance by your dentists is necessary for the duration your temporary crown is in place, even if it is "permanently" cemented.

Mark Bornfeld DDS