How to Clean a Temporary Tooth Crown

A dental crown is often recommended if there is not enough of a good tooth left to support a filling or if there is extensive damage to the tooth caused by decay or fractures. The dentist takes a mold of your tooth and sends it off to a lab, which prepares a permanent crown to fit over your affected tooth. He will fit your mouth with a temporary crown in order to keep the spacing correct within your jaw while you are waiting for the new crown. If you lose a temporary crown, replace it immediately and call your dentist.

Things You'll Need

• Mild analgesic
• Salt
• Water
• Desensitizing toothpaste
• Soft toothbrush
• Poxybrush
• Dental floss
• Alcohol-free antibacterial mouth wash

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Instructions

• 1

  Do not chew anything for a minimum of 30 minutes after the temporary crown is inserted, and avoid hot drinks. You can take a mild pain reliever such as Advil or Tylenol if you experience discomfort.

• 2

  Swish with saltwater a minimum of three times daily, using 1 tablespoon salt to every 8 ounces of water to help reduce swelling and discomfort. Try to keep the area surrounding your temporary crown free from debris.

• 3

  Brush gently and carefully around the crown using with a soft toothbrush at least twice daily. Clean around the area after eating using a poxybrush supplied by your dentist.

• 4

  Swish an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash in your mouth once daily to keep it disinfected.

• 5

  Floss delicately around the area of the temporary crown once a day.