Temporary Tooth Filling

Many of us must have experienced that, at meal time, after biting into a hard bit of food, a tooth filling falls out. During such a situation, if you are not able to reach your dentist, especially if you are on an outdoor trip, can really go out of control if the filling is not redone instantly.

This situation calls for a temporary tooth filling, which technically should be done by a dentist, but you'll be surprised to know that it can be performed to maintain dental health by any non professional as well.

A filling is basically a way to repair a tooth that has suffered from tooth decay or a cavity. While performing a filling, the dentist removes the decayed area of the tooth, cleans around it, and then fills in the voided area with a special material that will cater to the shape and form of the tooth.

A filling prevents further decay of the tooth by closing the area from where the bacteria can enter. The materials used for this include porcelain, gold, composite resin, and amalgam.

A temporary tooth filling is done to hold a displaced crown or lost filling in place. A typical indication of a dislodged crown or a lost filling is when you sense pain when cold liquids, foods, your tongue, or even cold air touches that sensitive area, which was earlier covered with a filling, but now lays exposed.

The most common material used is cimpat, which hardens in the tooth cavity and seals it to prevent further leaking. However, the only negative thing about a temporary filling is that it has no strength, and its ability to seal the tooth properly depends upon its method of preparation and where it has been placed.

If the filling is placed properly, at least 4 mm thick, then it may lasts for a few months. Else, after a week or so it will get washed out by dissolving in saliva and while eating.

The most basic material you'll require is the premixed compound, usually present in the kit available at dentists. And in case you don't have it, use the mixture present in a few first-aid kits or a ball of sugarless gum, or candle wax, or ski wax. Along with this, antiseptic soap, latex gloves, disinfected water, and oil of cloves will also be required.

First wash your hands with the antiseptic soap and wear the pair of latex gloves. Thoroughly rinse your mouth with disinfected water. To prepare the temporary filling, roll a ball of sugarless gum or wax, or use the premixed compound.

Apply a drop of eugenol or oil of cloves to the spot in the tooth where the filling was before, to lessen the pain. Now, slowly and carefully place the temporary filling in the hole and cover the exposed tissues as well. Slowly bite down and line the affected tooth with the one either below or above it. Wait for some time so the filling hardens.

Remember, you should try doing temporary tooth fillings by yourself only if your dentist is not around and the pain is intense. Since it is just a temporary solution for your dislocated crown or lost filling, and is not very strong, it is recommended that you have an entire dental check up and replace the temporary filling with a permanent one as soon as you get in touch with your dentist.