Hole in temporary crown... should I get this fixed?

Joined
Apr 12, 2015
Messages
2
I recently got a six unit bridge on my upper teeth (for cosmetic reasons, no infection or root canal or anything. perfectly healthy teeth). My teeth were ground down and the temporary was placed on about five days ago. One of the teeth started hurting a few days ago and upon inspection with a mirror I found that there is a hole (about the size of a sesame seed now, it's about twice the size it was yesterday) on the inside part. The crown is just really thin in that area so I think it just wore away somehow. My question is, should I just leave it alone and keep up with brushing, or should I go back to the dentist and see if they can fix it? I get my permanent bridge in a little under a month, so it's quite a bit of time. Is having a hole dangerous to the tooth since it's been ground down? It hurts but I figure that's just because it's exposed. I don't want to get an infection or something and end up needing a root canal. Sorry if this was all over the place but I really don't know how to describe it any other way. Input/advice would be greatly appreciated!
 

drmins

Verified Dentist
Joined
Sep 26, 2014
Messages
137
It would be better if you can consult the dentist and get it covered well. As the enamel are ground,you need to protect the dentin from getting exposed to food debris or other contamination.

Stay cool. Keep smiling.
dr.mins
 

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MattKW

Verified Dentist
Joined
Mar 18, 2018
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A small hole in a temporary crown may be OK for several weeks. The most likely issues that might arise are tooth sensitivity, or the temporary cement gives way and the temp crown/bridge comes off - so in your case, go back. You won't get an infection.
However, a temporary crown is about the same thickness as a permanent crown, so this may indicate that your tooth was not prepared deep enough. Ask the dentist about this too. If you're getting a PFM bridge then it may not be a problem as these can have a metal backing of as little as 0.3mm. But if you're getting a full ceramic bridge, then it must be at least 1mm thick all over.
 

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Joined
Aug 20, 2024
Messages
1
I recently got a six unit bridge on my upper teeth (for cosmetic reasons, no infection or root canal or anything. perfectly healthy teeth). My teeth were ground down and the temporary was placed on about five days ago. One of the teeth started hurting a few days ago and upon inspection with a mirror I found that there is a hole (about the size of a sesame seed now, it's about twice the size it was yesterday) on the inside part. The crown is just really thin in that area so I think it just wore away somehow. My question is, should I just leave it alone and keep up with brushing, or should I go back to the dentist and see if they can fix it? I get my permanent bridge in a little under a month, so it's quite a bit of time. Is having a hole dangerous to the tooth since it's been ground down? It hurts but I figure that's just because it's exposed. I don't want to get an infection or something and end up needing a root canal. Sorry if this was all over the place but I really don't know how to describe it any other way. Input/advice would be greatly appreciated!
It’s definitely a good idea to contact your dentist about the issue with your temporary bridge. Even though your permanent bridge is still a few weeks away, it’s important to address any problems with your temporary restoration as soon as possible. Here’s why:

  1. Protecting the Tooth: Since the teeth underneath have been ground down, they’re more vulnerable to damage. A hole in the temporary bridge could expose the underlying tooth structure, which might lead to discomfort or, in the worst case, an infection.
  2. Preventing Further Damage: If the temporary bridge is compromised, it may not protect your prepared teeth adequately. This could potentially cause further issues, including sensitivity or pain, and might complicate your future restoration.
  3. Avoiding Infection: An exposed area in the temporary bridge could increase the risk of plaque accumulation or food getting trapped, which could lead to an infection or other complications.
In the meantime, continue with good oral hygiene practices, including gentle brushing and flossing around the temporary bridge, but avoid any aggressive brushing that might worsen the situation.

Contact your dentist as soon as you can to have the temporary bridge repaired or replaced. It’s better to address these issues early to ensure that everything is in good shape for when your permanent bridge is placed.
 

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