Clinical review: Dr. Samreen Ejaz, BDS, RDS ·
What it’s for
A temporary filling closes the tooth between visits, for example between root canal appointments or while a crown is being made. We use a zinc oxide material for this. It’s made to hold for a limited time, not for good, and it isn’t the final repair. We’ll note it on your plan and tell you when it needs replacing.
Why your treatment is done in stages
Your tooth might need another root canal visit, some time to settle so we can see how it responds, or a crown from the lab. Dr. Samreen will tell you why the temporary is going in and what still needs doing. If the tooth feels fine in the meantime, that’s good news, but it doesn’t mean you can skip the next appointment.
At the appointment
We place the temporary to seal the opening and check that your bite feels normal on it. Before you leave, make sure you know when you can eat, when your next visit is, and what to do if a piece breaks off. If anything we say isn’t clear, ask us to write it down for you.
While you wait
Avoid chewing hard or sticky food on that tooth, as it can pull the temporary out. Keep brushing it gently. If the temporary falls out, the tooth starts hurting more, or your gum swells, call us. Please don’t fill the hole with anything from home or try to glue it back yourself. If swelling spreads into your face or neck, or you have a fever or trouble swallowing or breathing, go to a hospital emergency.
BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Questions about temporary zinc oxide restorations
How long can I leave a temporary filling?
Until the review date on your plan. Temporary materials wear down over time, so there’s no safe “forever”. If you can’t make your appointment, call us to rebook.
It feels fine. Do I still need the final filling or crown?
Yes. A temporary can feel perfectly comfortable and still not protect the tooth properly for the long term. If it leaks, germs can get back into the tooth.
What if it falls out at night?
Keep the area clean and avoid chewing on it, then call us in the morning. Come in sooner if you get swelling.
This is general information. What’s right for your tooth depends on what Dr. Samreen finds when she examines it.
Background reading: NHS: dental treatments. These are overseas sources, so their prices and rules don’t apply here.