I have an acrylic "cap" that has been glued on and have an appointment in 10 days for the crown. The temp cap came off and my dentist said that it should be replaced because the gum could grow up around the tooth. That did not make sense because they just told me that my gums are receding. ( I am 66). I am VERY chemically sensitive and I think I am having a reaction (flu-like symptoms) to the glue they used. So, my question is, can I wait until the crown appointment in 10 days, not have the temp cap replaced, and avoid chewing on that tooth? That is what I want to do.

It is more likely that if you were having an allergic reaction to the adhesive that the gum tissue would be red and irritated. Perhaps you caught a cold around the same time as the temp crown was placed.

Follow your dentist's advice and keep the temp crown in place until the appointment to have it replaced with the permanent crown. Also, since the natural tooth has been prepped for the dental work, you will be more susceptible to pain, sensitivity, and most importantly - damage to the natural tooth.

On the other hand, if you can keep the prepped area clean and healthy you may get away with leaving the temp off for a few days. I think your dentist may be concerned of the tissues becoming inflammed from bacteria. How long has the temp been on? It should only take 10-14 days for a lab to make a crown but sometimes a dentist can ask for it to take priority.

As nikosmom said you may have some sensitivity to temperature unless the tooth has had a root canal.

I hate it when patients don't come back after a temp crown comes off (when I ask them to). Gum tissue may grow on to the crown preparation making the cementation harder/bloodier. Also, the tooth will be more susceptible to fracture depending on how big of a filling it has on it. I'd at least have the courtesy to call the office and let them know it broke but you are not in pain.