Role of Provisional Restorations in Restorative Dentistry
Provisional restorations are often used during complex restorative dental procedures to serve as temporary prosthetic replacements while patients wait for a permanent restoration. Provisional restorations offer patients to try-out the look and feel of the final prosthetic and make any necessary changes before the final fabrication and fitting. Unlike temporary prosthetics of the past, modern provisional restorations are highly functional and aesthetically pleasing. Today’s temporaries are composed of a quality acrylic resin that mimics the look and feel of permanent metal or ceramic restorations.
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Provisional restorations are a primary component of smile reconstructions. In addition to serving cosmetic purposes for patients with missing or damaged teeth, dental temporaries provide the following functions:
- Reserving space for the permanent restoration by preventing surrounding tooth movement
- Protecting reduced natural teeth that are prepped for restorations
- Preserving the health and natural contours of the gums surrounding the restoration
- Protecting exposed dentin from bacteria and plaque
- Preventing tooth sensitivity
- Facilitating normal eating and speaking
The Process of Getting a Provisional Restoration
The placement of a provisional restoration is usually quick and comfortable. First, the dentist prepares the affected tooth or teeth for the final restoration. Once impressions are taken, a custom temporary is crafted from acrylic resin. The provisional crown or bridge is then carefully placed, shaped, and adjusted to fit comfortably in the mouth. Patients leave the office with a functional and natural-looking restoration that protects their teeth until the permanent version is ready.
How Long Do Provisional Restorations Last?
Provisional restorations are designed to be temporary, but they are durable enough to last several weeks or even months when needed. The exact length of time depends on the complexity of the treatment plan and the time required to fabricate the permanent prosthetic. While provisionals can withstand normal eating and speaking, they are not as strong as permanent crowns or bridges. Patients should follow their dentist’s care instructions to ensure the restoration stays intact until the final one is placed.