What to Eat with a Temporary Crown: A Guide to Protecting Your Restoration
Getting a temporary crown is a common step in the dental restoration process. While it's designed to protect your tooth while your permanent crown is being made, it's crucial to understand what you can and cannot eat to ensure its longevity and prevent damage. Ignoring dietary restrictions can lead to premature failure, requiring costly repairs or even replacement.
This guide will outline safe food choices and foods to avoid, answering common questions about diet and temporary crowns.
What foods are safe to eat with a temporary crown?
The key is to eat soft foods that won't put excessive pressure or stress on your temporary crown. Think foods that require minimal chewing:
- Soft Cooked Vegetables: Mashed potatoes, steamed carrots, well-cooked peas.
- Soups: Broths, creamy soups (avoid chunky soups).
- Yogurt: Plain or flavored, a great source of probiotics.
- Applesauce: Smooth and easy on the teeth.
- Scrambled Eggs: Soft and easily chewed.
- Oatmeal: Choose varieties without nuts or hard ingredients.
- Smoothies: Blend your favorite fruits and vegetables for a nutritious and gentle meal.
- Pasta: Soft pasta (avoid hard-to-chew pasta like shells).
- Well-cooked Rice: Easy to swallow and digest.
What foods should I avoid with a temporary crown?
Foods that are hard, sticky, or chewy can dislodge or damage your temporary crown. Avoid:
- Hard Candies: These can easily crack or dislodge the crown.
- Sticky Candies: Caramels, taffies, and gummy candies can adhere to the crown and pull it loose.
- Tough Meats: Steak, jerky, and other difficult-to-chew meats put excessive pressure on the crown.
- Nuts: The hard shells and potential for getting stuck can cause problems.
- Hard Breads: Crusty bread and bagels can damage the crown.
- Popcorn: The kernels can get wedged under the crown or cause it to shift.
- Ice: Avoid chewing ice, as it's exceptionally hard and can easily damage the crown.
- Raw Vegetables: Hard raw vegetables like carrots and apples should be avoided or eaten very cautiously.
- Chewing Gum: The stickiness can dislodge the crown.
How long do I need to follow this diet?
You'll need to adhere to this diet until your permanent crown is placed. Your dentist will give you a specific timeframe, typically a few weeks. Once your permanent crown is cemented, you can return to your normal diet.
What if my temporary crown comes loose or falls out?
If your temporary crown comes loose or falls out, contact your dentist immediately. Don't try to re-cement it yourself. Leaving the area uncovered could lead to further complications.
Can I brush and floss normally with a temporary crown?
Yes, you can brush and floss normally, but do so gently around the area of the temporary crown. Be careful not to put excessive pressure on the crown.
What if I accidentally eat something I shouldn't have?
If you accidentally consume a food you shouldn't have, carefully check the crown for any damage or dislodgement. Contact your dentist if you notice any problems.
Remember, following your dentist's instructions and being mindful of your diet will help protect your temporary crown and ensure a smooth transition to your permanent restoration. By taking these precautions, you'll contribute to a successful outcome and avoid any unexpected dental issues.
