Why is a temporary filling needed? What does it provide? How long should it stay? – these and many other questions are asked by patients after having such a filling placed.
There are several purposes for which temporary fillings are placed.
- diagnostic
In cases where the carious cavity is very extensive and the removal of dead tooth tissue is quite deep, it is necessary to make sure that the tooth pulp has not been affected. A temporary filling is placed so that the patient can live with it for some time and observe sensations in the tooth. If everything is fine, the temporary filling is replaced with a permanent one. If pain appears in the tooth, especially at night and not relieved without painkillers, it indicates inflammation of the tooth’s neurovascular bundle – the pulp – and root canal treatment will be required.
- sealing
A temporary filling is used in pulpitis cases when treatment is carried out in two stages. During the first visit, a devitalizing paste (to cause pulp necrosis) is applied to the exposed pulp. Then the tooth cavity is closed with a temporary filling to prevent saliva, food, and hygiene products from entering, as well as to prevent the paste from reaching the oral cavity.
- protective
This function of a temporary filling is important when preparing teeth for prosthetics. While permanent restorations are being made, the prepared teeth must remain protected. The temporary filling provides this protection.
In general, temporary fillings are used when treatment is carried out in multiple stages, and at the end of each stage, the tooth must be sealed. Simply put, it is a kind of insurance allowing the dentist to control the treatment.
The composition of a temporary filling must primarily be safe and meet several requirements:
- high adhesion to the tooth walls to ensure a tight seal;
- radiopacity for monitoring the quality of the filling;
- strength, because even though it is temporary, the patient will still chew and put pressure on the filled tooth;
- should be easily removable from the cavity for further treatment.
Modern dentistry offers several types of temporary fillings:
- artificial dentin, made from zinc sulfate and kaolin;
- dentin paste – similar to artificial dentin, but oil-based;
- dental cements;
- polymer fillings.
All these materials are used for different purposes and durations, depending on the course of treatment. Only the treating dentist can specify the exact time when placing the filling. Under no circumstances should the specified period be exceeded, as this can lead to loss of seal, entry of microorganisms, recurrence of inflammation, or other complications. It is advisable to agree with your dentist in advance on when you can return for a follow-up visit so that the material choice takes this into account.
After placing a temporary filling, some simple rules should be followed:
- maintain oral hygiene with a small adjustment: use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste;
- avoid hard and sticky foods (nuts, toffees, caramel);
- avoid staining foods until the material fully hardens, as the filling may discolor.
Despite seeming insignificant, a temporary filling plays a very important role in the final result of treatment. By choosing a doctor who understands the importance of even such small details as the temporary filling material, you are guaranteed to achieve an excellent outcome!
