A temporary tooth repair kit, often called a dental first-aid kit, offers immediate, short-term relief from common dental issues. These kits are typically used to cover a lost filling, a chipped tooth, or a loose crown until professional dental treatment can be received. The primary purpose is to protect the exposed, sensitive inner structures of the tooth, such as the dentin, from further damage and bacteria. Applying this material creates a temporary seal that reduces sensitivity and prevents food debris from entering the cavity.
Preparing the Area for Repair
Before handling any material, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to maintain hygiene. Gently clean the affected area within the mouth to remove any trapped food particles or debris. Rinsing the mouth carefully with warm water helps dislodge loose material from the cavity or exposed tooth surface.
The success of the temporary repair depends on the material’s ability to adhere to the tooth structure. To promote adhesion, the cavity must be as dry as possible before application. Gently use a cotton swab or a small piece of sterile gauze to absorb excess moisture from the area being repaired. Some kits include a liquid, often containing eugenol, which can be applied to the cavity to help the filling material set and adhere.
Applying the Temporary Material
Mixing and Preparing the Material
The temporary filling material usually comes as a soft putty or as a powder and liquid that must be mixed. For putty materials, use a clean tool or your fingers to pinch off a small amount, enough to slightly overfill the cavity. Roll the material between your fingers to form a small ball or cone shape for easier handling and insertion. The warmth from your hands helps soften and prepare the material for placement.
Inserting and Pressing the Material
Carefully place the shaped material directly into the cleaned and dried cavity. Using the applicator tool provided, or a clean finger, gently tamp the material into the void. Ensure the material is pressed firmly against the internal walls of the tooth structure to create a complete seal. Slightly overfilling the space is recommended to allow for subsequent shaping and contouring.
Shaping and Contouring the Repair
Once the material is seated, use a clean, moist cotton swab or a wet finger to gently push the material deeper and adapt it to the surrounding tooth structure. Moisture helps smooth the surface of the temporary filling. After the filling is roughly shaped, slowly close your teeth together, simulating a normal bite. This action allows the opposing tooth to naturally contour the surface, preventing a high spot that could cause discomfort or fracture.
Curing and Setting Time
The temporary material, often composed of compounds like zinc oxide and calcium sulfate, begins to set within a few minutes once exposed to the mouth’s moisture. Avoid chewing on the repaired area for at least two to three hours to allow the material to fully harden and cure. If the material feels uneven after the initial bite check, remove a small amount with a tool or moist cotton swab before it completely sets.
Care After Application and Seeking Professional Help
Immediately after application, refrain from eating or drinking for the first hour to ensure the material has time to bond and stabilize. Once the material has set, only eat soft foods and avoid chewing directly on the side with the repair. Hard, sticky, or crunchy foods can easily dislodge the temporary filling or cause it to crack, exposing the tooth again.
When cleaning your teeth, be gentle around the repaired area and avoid flossing directly next to the temporary filling, as this can pull the material out. The temporary repair is designed to last for a short duration, typically serving its function for a few days up to a few weeks. Because these materials naturally disintegrate over time, they are not a substitute for a permanent dental restoration.
Contact your dental professional immediately after applying the temporary fix to schedule a follow-up appointment. The temporary nature of the kit means it is only a stopgap measure. Delaying professional treatment can lead to further decay, infection, or serious complications. Ideally, a permanent repair should be sought within 48 hours of using the temporary material.