If you have a dental crown, you know how important it is to have a strong and secure bond between your crown and your tooth. Yet, sometimes your crown may become loose due to various reasons, such as an infection or injury. When this happens, your dentist may recommend a temporary crown cement to hold the crown in place until a permanent solution can be identified.
But with so many options on the market, how do you know which is the best temporary cement for crowns? In this blog post, we will go over the different types of temporary crown cement and their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Eugenol-based temporary cement
Eugenol-based temporary cement is a popular choice as it offers many advantages. Eugenol is a compound that is derived from clove oil, and it is known for its antiseptic and soothing properties. This type of cement is easy to use and has a pleasant taste and smell.
However, eugenol-based cement does have some disadvantages. It is not suitable for patients with allergies to eugenol or those who are allergic to cloves. In addition, eugenol can soften dental porcelain, which may reduce the lifespan of your crown.
Non-eugenol temporary cement
Non-eugenol temporary cement is another popular choice as it does not contain eugenol. This type of cement is often preferred for patients who are allergic to eugenol or have sensitive teeth.
Non-eugenol temporary cement has many benefits, including its strength and durability. It also does not soften dental porcelain, which means it can be used for longer periods of time. However, it has a strong chemical odor and can sometimes leave a residue that may be difficult to remove.
Resin-based temporary cement
For patients who need maximum retention, such as for a short crown preparation, a resin-based cement may be the best choice. Resin-based temporary cement offers excellent bond strength, and it is more resistant to moisture than other types of cement.
However, resin-based cement can be difficult to remove and may require special tools. It is also more expensive than other types of temporary cement.
Glass ionomer-based temporary cement
Glass ionomer-based temporary cement is a newer option. Glass ionomer is a type of restorative material that is used in dentistry. It is known for its tooth-coloured appearance and high fluoride release.
Glass ionomer-based temporary cement offers many advantages. Firstly, it is easy to apply, and it can bond directly to the tooth structure, making it more durable. Secondly, it releases fluoride, which can help reduce the risk of tooth decay.
However, glass ionomer-based temporary cement is not suitable for all patients. It has a low bond strength, which means it may not be strong enough for some patients. It is also more expensive than traditional temporary cement.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best temporary cement for crowns, it ultimately depends on your individual needs and the recommendation of your dentist. Each type of temporary cement has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
If you have any questions about temporary crown cement or need help managing a loose or lost crown, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist today. With the right temporary cement, you can ensure that your crown stays secure and in place until a permanent solution can be found.
FAQ
What kind of cement do dentists use for temporary crowns?
Temporary crowns are used in dentistry to protect a tooth that has had a root canal, is broken or has had a filling. The main purpose of a temporary crown is to maintain the aesthetics and function of the tooth until the permanent crown can be placed. One important aspect of placing a temporary crown is the cement that is used to keep it in place.
Zinc-oxide temporary cements are a mainstay of dentistry for such purposes, first used in the 1930s. The zinc-oxide cements can be broken into two subcategories: those with eugenol (ZOE cements), and those without (ZONE cements). “Zinc oxides are pretty common,” says Dr. Michael Goodchild, a professor of restorative dentistry at Loma Linda University. “These are popular cements, with or without eugenol.”
ZOE cements have been used extensively in dentistry for many years. Eugenol, a component of ZOE, is a natural product of cloves and is used in many dental materials, as well as other medical products. Eugenol-containing cements have been popular because they exhibit some analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in addition to their sticking power.
However, some dental professionals report eugenol sensitivity in some patients. Therefore, non-eugenol-containing cements provide a good alternative. ZONE cements lack eugenol and are formulated with a polymer, which helps to create a stronger bond to the tooth. ZONE cements also offer less solubility in oral fluids, which results in a stronger bond to the tooth over time.
Zinc-Oxide temporary cements are the most common type of cement used by dentists for temporary crowns, and there are two subcategories available: ZOE cements and ZONE cements. ZOE cements contain eugenol and have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, while ZONE cements lack eugenol and offer a stronger bond to the tooth over time. The choice of which cement to use is determined based on the individual need of the patient and the preferences of the dental clinician.
How long does Dentemp hold a crown on?
Dentemp is a temporary dental cement that is commonly used to fix loose or broken dental crowns. It is a temporary solution that provides relief until a permanent fix can be made. One of the most frequently asked questions about Dentemp is how long it will hold a crown in place.
According to the manufacturer, Dentemp should last for up to two weeks, although some people may find that it lasts slightly longer. This is because the length of time it lasts can be affected by the condition of the tooth, the quality of the crown, and how well the Dentemp was applied. Additionally, the type of Dentemp used can also impact how long it lasts in place.
It is important to note that Dentemp is a temporary solution and should not be relied on as a long-term fix for a loose or broken crown. If you experience any discomfort or the temporary crown falls out, it is essential that you contact your dentist immediately. They will be able to assess the situation and provide an appropriate solution. In most cases, a dentist will need to remove the temporary crown and apply a permanent adhesive or crown to fix the problem permanently.
Dentemp is a useful temporary fix for a loose or broken crown, but it is not a permanent solution. It should be used as directed by the manufacturer and replaced with a permanent fix as soon as possible by a qualified dentist. The length of time it lasts can vary, but it is typically up to two weeks or slightly longer. If you have any concerns or questions about using Dentemp, it is recommended that you consult with your dentist.
Can I cement my own crown back in?
If you have a loose or missing dental crown, you may be wondering if it is possible to simply cement it back in place yourself. While it is possible to temporarily reattach a dental crown using over-the-counter adhesive materials, it is not recommended as a long-term solution.
First, it’s important to understand why a dental crown may become loose or fall off. The most common reason is that the underlying tooth structure has weakened or decayed, causing the crown to become loose or detach completely. In these cases, simply cementing the crown back in place may not be a viable solution, as the underlying issue may need to be addressed first to ensure the crown can be properly secured.
If you are experiencing a loose or missing crown, it is important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the underlying issue and determine the appropriate course of action. If the underlying tooth structure is in good condition, they may be able to reattach the crown themselves using professional dental cement.
If for some reason you are unable to see a dentist right away and need to temporarily reattach the crown yourself, there are a few steps you can take. First, gently clean the inside of the crown with toothpaste and warm water, making sure to remove any debris or adhesive material that may be present. Then, apply a small amount of dental adhesive (or even toothpaste or sugar-free gum) to the inside of the crown, and place it back into its spot on your jawline. Be sure to bite down gently and hold the crown in place for at least a minute to allow the adhesive to set.
Keep in mind that this is only a temporary solution, and you should still plan to see a dentist as soon as possible. A loose or missing crown can lead to further damage or decay if left untreated, and attempting to reattach the crown yourself can be risky and may cause further damage. It’s always best to seek professional dental care to ensure the health and integrity of your teeth and gums.
