Provisional Restoration
A temporary fixed or removable prosthesis placed to maintain aesthetics, occlusion, and function while the definitive restoration is being fabricated or while treatment is in progress.
Full Definition
A provisional restoration is a short-term prosthetic appliance designed to protect tooth structure, maintain occlusal vertical dimension, and allow soft-tissue maturation between appointments. It serves as a diagnostic tool, enabling the clinician and patient to evaluate form, function, and aesthetics before committing to the definitive prosthesis. Provisional restorations are typically fabricated from acrylic resin or bis-acryl composite and are not intended for long-term use. Editors should distinguish 'provisional' (time-limited, treatment-phase device) from 'interim' (bridge between treatment phases) and from 'temporary' (non-specific lay usage that lacks clinical precision).
Usage
Usage note: Prefer 'provisional restoration' over the lay term 'temporary crown' in all formal clinical and editorial contexts.
In Context
- "A provisional restoration was cemented following tooth preparation to protect the prepared surfaces during the laboratory phase." — Operative dentistry procedure note
- "Authors should use 'provisional restoration' rather than 'temporary crown' in formal clinical writing to maintain terminological precision." — Journal submission guidelines