Temporary dental cement is an over-the-counter material designed to act as a short-term, protective measure for dental emergencies. Its function is to provide a temporary seal for a lost filling or to re-secure a dislodged crown until professional dental care can be obtained. This material helps prevent sensitivity by shielding the exposed underlying tooth structure. It is not a permanent solution and should be viewed strictly as a temporary bandage.
When and How to Prepare for Temporary Repair
Temporary cement is appropriate for specific situations, primarily a lost filling or a crown that has come off the tooth preparation. Do not use temporary cement if the tooth is fractured, causing severe pain, or noticeable swelling; seek immediate professional attention instead. Before application, the area must be clean and dry for proper adhesion. Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to remove food debris or old cement from the tooth and the inner surface of the restoration.
If recementing a crown, use a cotton swab or a small, unfolded paperclip to scrape out any hardened, old cement from the inside. Drying the surfaces is critical, as moisture prevents effective bonding. Use a clean cotton ball or gauze to dry both the tooth preparation and the inside of the crown or cavity. If the area is visibly wet with saliva, the temporary cement will likely fail quickly.
Applying the Dental Cement: A Step-by-Step Guide
Temporary cement kits come as a pre-mixed, putty-like material or as a two-part system of paste and catalyst. For two-part systems, measure equal lengths of the base and catalyst onto a mixing pad and blend them thoroughly with a spatula until the color is uniform. Some products recommend letting the mixed cement sit until it reaches a stiffer, putty-like consistency, making it easier to handle and place.
If replacing a lost filling, roll a small amount of cement into a ball, ensuring it is slightly larger than the hole. Gently press this ball into the cavity, using a plastic tool or a wet finger to press the material down and fill all gaps. Smooth the surface so it aligns with the surrounding tooth structure.
For recementing a crown, apply a thin layer of the prepared cement only to the inner fitting surface. Avoid overfilling, as excess material will squeeze out and potentially interfere with your bite. Align the crown with the prepared tooth, ensuring it faces the correct direction, and gently press it back into place.
Once the crown is seated, gently bite down a few times to ensure the restoration is fully seated and not sitting “high.” Carefully remove any excess cement that oozes out around the edges using a cotton swab, a toothpick, or a soft toothbrush before it fully sets. Removing this excess prevents irritation to your gums or the creation of a trap for plaque.
Post-Application Care and Professional Follow-Up
Allow the temporary cement sufficient time to set before using the tooth. Setting time varies by product, but you should avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes to one hour after placement. This time allows the material to solidify and provide the necessary retention and seal.
To maintain the temporary repair, adjust your diet and chewing habits. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, such as caramel or chewing gum, as these can easily dislodge the temporary restoration. Chew primarily on the opposite side of your mouth to minimize stress on the repaired area.
Temporary cement is designed to last a few days to a few weeks; it is not a long-term fix. Prolonged use can lead to issues like recurrent decay or the shifting of adjacent teeth. Contact your dental office immediately to schedule a follow-up appointment for permanent repair.
Be aware that some temporary cements contain eugenol, an ingredient that can interfere with the bonding process of newer, resin-based permanent cements. Inform your dental professional exactly which product you used so they can properly clean the tooth surface before placing the final restoration.