Which crown type is typically formed before taking a dental impression?

The custom provisional crown is typically formed before taking a dental impression for a definitive restoration. This type of crown is crafted specifically for an individual patient's anatomical needs and plays an essential role in aesthetics and function until a permanent crown can be placed. The custom provisional provides a template and ensures that the dental team has a reference for the dimensions and contour of the final restoration.

Using a custom provisional allows the dental professional to assess the patient's fit, comfort, and appearance in the mouth, making it a critical step in planning for the final crown. The material used for these crowns is designed to mimic the properties of the final restoration while also allowing the dentist to make adjustments as needed.

In contrast, a stainless steel crown is typically used as a durable, ready-made solution for certain dental situations, often for primary teeth in pediatric dentistry. Polycarboxylate crowns and polymer crowns may refer to specific types of materials rather than a process leading to custom-fitting for a patient, and they are not commonly distinguished as provisional types used in the same context as custom provisional crowns.