A poor oral hygiene regime can cause multiple kinds of dental issues such as tooth decay, salty or metallic taste in the mouth, etc. Dental treatments help get rid of your tooth troubles. For example, a dental filling aids in treating tooth decay and damage that has been going on for years. However, your dentist may not immediately fix your teeth with a permanent solution. They might use a temporary tooth filling for the time being.
But, what are these fillings used for teeth; more so, what is the need to use these fake tooth fillers?
Temporary Dental Filling
A short-term filling acts as a time-being replacement until permanent ones are available. There are certain conditions under which such as decision is applicable. Until the permanent fillings come in, temporary ones will replace them to restore tooth damage.
Conditions When A Temporary Tooth Filling is Used?
Most of the times, dentists go for a permanent filling for the tooth. However, in certain circumstances, such as a traumatic incident that hit the oral cavity, if the tooth filling fell out, causing severe pain, etc.
In these instances, fixing the issue becomes mandatory with a temporary filling to alleviate tooth pain. The dentist will then set an appointment for a permanent solution as well.
Here’s a quick summary of when this temp solution is applicable:
- Emergency treatment at home with a filling for temporary relief from excruciating tooth pain.
- Protection of sensitive tooth layers with a short term filler until the crown is made.
- A temporary filling is perfect for the tooth until the root canal heals up properly.
How Long Does A Temporary Filling Last on The Tooth Surface?
These types of filler materials do not last long. They are soft and crack off if you do not get permanent ones on time.
Typically, these fillers can stay on the tooth for a few weeks to a few months, depending on the oral regime of that person. However, there is one catch. People with temporary fillers cannot eat or drink like after traditional fillings. Therefore, always know the time span of these materials and how long the wait to get your hands on the permanent one is.
Maintenance Tips
These materials need appropriate care for them not to crack or fall out of your tooth, as they are not long-lasting. Your dentist will provide you with a particular set of instructions about your filling. Follow those practical tips along with these for maintenance.
- Steer clear of hard/sticky/chewy food items: The probability of fillings coming out after eating nuts, hard candies, and toffees increase since the force can dislodge your filling.
Moreover, you should not chew from that side of the mouth entirely, in the first few hours at least. - Gentle cleaning of the filling site: Your fillers must remain secure in their place. Therefore, it is best to brush and floss gently, not to pull the filling put.
Final Outlook
A temporary tooth filling works as a short-term solution for your dental issues. Meanwhile, the dentist gets his hands on the crown, a crown, or a permanent filler, whichever he might feel is feasible.
In case your dental pain is becoming unbearable, call one of the experts from Cinco Ranch Family Dentistry. Dial (281)-407-5442 to connect with us.