Accidents can happen at any time, and when there is no dentist around, the DIY Temporary Tooth Repair Kit can help you manage the pain until you get help. Temporary filling material can be easily applied to the chipped or damaged tooth, and is readily available in pharmacies or departmental stores. Read the instructions on the Temporary Tooth Repair Kit before you apply the filling to your affected tooth.
The temporary filling is not meant to last forever, but it can help you get by until you get a time from your dentist. The filling normally lasts between six and eight weeks especially in the case of root canal. The temporary filling is not a permanent solution as it only seals the tooth for a short while until you can get proper treatment. It does not offer the same protection against bacteria, gum infection and decay as a permanent filling does. But clinics these days are so busy that waiting for a dental appointment can take several weeks. That is why this Temporary Tooth Repair Kit comes in so handy.
Types of temporary tooth repair
There are many temporary fillings available in the market, for example, Cavit, which is a self-cured filling solution. It can be easily applied to temporarily restore cavities. Poly F is a zinc polycarboxylate based cement which is more suitable for temporary fixing of crowns, inlays and bridges. Zinc oxide Eugenol also known as ZOE is a highly rated temporary filling. It is a combination of zinc oxide and Eugenol which is a substance found in the oil of cloves. Fuji GIC cement is another popular temporary filling on the market which comes in versions II, VII and IX. It is also a self-cured filling and has glass ionomer restorative which is highly resistant to water, thus making the filling last longer.
Some precaution is required when using a temporary filling, so your tooth does not get further damage. Be careful when chewing food, and chew as gently as possible, preferably on one side of the mouth. This way the filling will be preserved, and not get destroyed easily. Also, take caution when brushing your teeth or flossing, use a soft or extra-soft toothbrush, and brush gently so that you do not damage the filling.
Pain tips
If the pain is severe, you can use a dental analgesic as well along with the temporary tooth filling. Garlic is also a well-known natural antibiotic which can help you manage the pain until you get your permanent filling. If you see any pus around the damaged tooth, gargle with warm water and salt. It will cleanse your mouth, and also soothe the pain a bit. You can also use clove oil which has the same natural anesthetic, Eugenol, and is especially used for toothache. It might sting your tongue a bit, but you will feel much better after the pain has lessened. Some toothpastes like the Red Cross Toothache also help with persistent toothache. They consist of a mixture of Eugenol oil and Sesame oil which offers instant relief.