Understanding Your Temporary Zirconia Crowns: Bite Adjustments and Appearances

Many individuals find themselves questioning the appearance and functionality of their temporary zirconia crowns after their placement. It is quite natural to feel concerned about the bite and overall appearance, especially when it feels different or unusual. In this article, we will explore common concerns related to temporary zirconia crowns and provide insights to help you understand what is happening and when to expect certain changes.

Adjusting to Your Temporary Crowns

Temporary crowns, also known as provisional crowns, are not the final product. They serve as placeholders to protect the prepared tooth until your permanent zirconia crown is fabricated. It's important to understand that your permanent zirconia crown will fit and feel different once it is placed. This is because the temporary crown is a stopgap measure, created with a different material and technique than your final crown.

As the name implies, temporary crowns are not meticulously shaped anatomically. They are typically made of plastic and cannot be shaped as thin as metal or zirconia crowns near the gumline. This is why they often appear longer than your natural teeth. The temporary crown is designed to protect the prepared tooth and provide a temporary solution until your permanent crown is ready.

Why Do Temporary Crowns Look Different?

At first, temporary crowns may feel different and cause changes in your bite. This is due to a few reasons:

Material Differences: Temporary crowns are often made of plastic, which is not as durable or precise as zirconia or metal. Plastics can warp slightly due to temperature changes and may feel uneven or different from your natural teeth. Aesthetic Differences: Because temporary crowns are not hand-finished like your permanent crowns, they might appear more blunt or less polished. Your dentist may slightly modify the bite to accommodate the temporary crown, which can affect the overall feel. Loss of Tissue Memory: Temporary crowns may cause the gums to swell slightly, leading to a temporary change in the shape and length of your teeth. This can make your teeth appear longer or feel more prominent until your gums return to their normal state.

It's important to remember that these changes are temporary and are primarily due to the use of less precise materials. Once your permanent zirconia crown is placed, these issues should resolve.

Waiting for Your Permanents

The final zirconia crowns will offer a more lifelike and comfortable fit. They will be finely crafted to match the shape, color, and function of your natural teeth. Once your permanent zirconia crown is placed, your bite will be more stable, and the appearance of your teeth will more closely resemble your original teeth. Your dentist will adjust the bite to ensure proper alignment and functionality, addressing any concerns you may have with your temporary crowns.

Conclusion

Temporary zirconia crowns are essential for protecting your prepared teeth while your permanent crowns are being fabricated. While they may feel different and cause some changes in your bite and appearance, these changes are temporary and will resolve once your permanent crowns are in place. It's important to communicate any concerns to your dentist during this process. They can offer specific guidance and adjustments to ensure a smooth transition to your permanent crowns.

In summary, your temporary zirconia crowns are a necessary step in your dental treatment. They protect your prepared tooth and provide stability while your permanent crown is being made. Be patient and trust that your final zirconia crown will achieve the desired results, addressing any bite or aesthetic concerns.