Dental emergencies rarely happen at convenient times. Whether it’s a chipped tooth from biting down too hard, a dislodged filling, or a broken crown, immediate pain and sensitivity can disrupt your day. While professional dental treatment is always the best long-term solution, there are temporary tooth repair options you can use to protect your teeth and relieve discomfort until you can get to a dentist.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we provide emergency dental care in Scarborough and often guide patients on what to do before they arrive at our office. In this blog, well explore effective and safe temporary solutions for common dental emergencies.
When You Might Need Temporary Tooth Repair
Temporary tooth repairs are not substitutes for permanent treatment but are critical in the following emergency situations:
Chipped or cracked tooth
Lost dental filling or crown
Dislodged or broken dental bridge
Tooth knocked loose but still attached
Sharp edges cutting the tongue or cheeks
Tooth pain due to exposed dentin or nerves
These repairs help reduce pain, protect the inner layers of the tooth, and prevent further damage or infection until professional care is available.
Common Temporary Tooth Repair Solutions
1. Dental Wax or Orthodontic Wax
Dental wax is a quick and safe way to cover sharp edges or small chips on teeth, especially in children. It prevents cuts to the inside of the mouth and tongue. Simply roll a small piece between clean fingers and press it gently onto the damaged area.
Use for:
Minor chips
Sharp edges causing irritation
Protecting braces or wires until repair
2. Temporary Dental Filling Material
Available at most pharmacies, temporary dental filling kits can seal cavities or refill areas where permanent fillings have fallen out. These kits typically contain zinc oxide-based putty that you press into the space with a small tool or clean finger.
Use for:
Lost fillings
Broken crowns
Cavities causing sensitivity
Note: These materials are meant to last a few days at most and should not be chewed on.
3. Dental Cement (for Temporary Crowns or Caps)
If a crown or bridge has fallen off and you still have the restoration, dental cement can be used to temporarily reseat it. After cleaning the crown and your tooth with warm water, apply the cement inside the crown and press it back into place. Bite down gently to secure it.
Use for:
Dislodged crowns or bridges
Loose dental caps
Never use superglue or household adhesives, as these are toxic and not designed for oral use.
4. Sugar-Free Gum (As a Last Resort)
If you dont have access to temporary dental materials, sugar-free gum can be used as a soft barrier to reduce pain or sensitivity. Its not durable, but it offers short-term comfort for exposed surfaces.
Use for:
Covering sensitive spots
Preventing air or food contact with a cavity
Avoid chewing on the injured side of the mouth.
5. Orthodontic Retainer Wax or Mouthguards
For a loose or slightly displaced tooth, wearing a soft mouthguard can help protect the area from further impact while you wait for treatment. Orthodontic wax can also help stabilize minor movement.
Use for:
Slight tooth loosening
Pain when biting or chewing
Preventing injury to surrounding teeth
What to Avoid When Attempting Temporary Repairs
While temporary repairs can offer relief, certain actions can worsen the injury or increase your risk of infection:
Do not use glue, tape, or adhesives not intended for oral use
Do not ignore swelling, fever, or pus, which could indicate infection
Do not chew hard or sticky foods near the injured area
Do not attempt to push a tooth back into place if its severely loose or displaced
When in doubt, contact McLevin Dental Clinic for guidance. Our team can walk you through safe first aid steps over the phone.
Managing Pain While Awaiting Treatment
In addition to temporary materials, here are some ways to manage tooth pain in emergencies:
Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen (as directed)
Rinse with warm salt water to reduce bacteria and soothe soft tissues
Apply a cold compress on the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling
Avoid extremely hot or cold drinks
Stick to soft foods like yogurt, scrambled eggs, or mashed potatoes
These steps wont resolve the underlying issue but can keep symptoms manageable until your appointment.
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
Temporary fixes are just thattemporary. You should always follow up with a dentist if:
You experience tooth pain lasting more than 24 hours
Theres visible damage to the tooth structure
You see swelling, pus, or redness in the gums
A crown, filling, or bridge is completely dislodged
The tooth is loose, cracked, or painful when touched
You feel a sharp edge or sensitivity to temperature
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we provide same-day emergency dental services in Scarborough to resolve these issues with lasting solutions.
Preventing Future Dental Emergencies
To avoid future emergency situations:
Dont chew ice, hard candy, or non-food objects
Wear a mouthguard during sports or high-risk activities
Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and early detection
Avoid using your teeth to open packaging or bite hard surfaces
Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent decay and gum issues
We also recommend keeping a dental emergency kit at home, including temporary filling material, dental wax, cotton gauze, and oral pain relievers.
Final Thoughts
Temporary dental repair options can be lifesavers when you’re facing sudden tooth damage or discomfort. While they provide short-term relief, its essential to seek professional dental care promptly to address the root of the problem.