How to Temporarily Replace a Tooth Filling

Fear not. You can temporarily fill a tooth or hold a dislodged crown in place for up to a couple of weeks.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Premixed Temporary Filling Compound
• Advanced First Aid Certification
• Evacuation Plan
• First Aid Books
• Wilderness First Aid Classes
• Candle Wax
• Sugarless Gum
• Antibacterial Soaps
• Dental Floss
• First Aid Kits
• Latex Gloves
• Oil Of Cloves
• Soft-bristled Toothbrushes
• Toothpaste
• Zinc Oxide Powder
• Dental Exam
• Dental Insurance
• Evacuation Insurance
• First Aid Classes
• Ski Wax
• Water Bottles

1. Look for the early signs of having lost a filling or dislodged a crown: pain when cold air, food, liquids or your tongue touch the tender area.

2. Wash your hands thoroughly with antiseptic soap.

3. Put on latex gloves if you are treating someone other than yourself.

4. Prepare a mixture to use as temporary filling if you do not have a premixed temporary filling compound from your dentist. A standard mixture available with some first aid kits is a mix of zinc oxide powder and oil of cloves, but you can improvise by rolling a ball of sugarless gum, ski wax or candle wax.

5. Rinse the mouth thoroughly with disinfected water.

6. Apply a drop of oil of cloves (also known as "eugenol") to the hole in the mouth. This will reduce the pain.

7. Roll the temporary filling into a small ball and place the ball gently into the exposed area, making certain to cover any exposed tissue.

8. Bite down, lining the tooth up with the tooth above or below it.

9. Wait for the filling to harden if you are using a premixed filling or a mixture of zinc oxide powder and oil of cloves.

10. Evacuate immediately and see a dentist.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

• This information is not intended to be a substitution for professional medical advice or treatment.