Experiencing a loose dental crown can be frustrating and, at times, quite painful, especially while eating or brushing your teeth. The good news is that you do not need to rush to a dentist right away. A dental cap glue can be utilized to provide temporary relief until you seek professional dental help. The question is, how do you choose the right one, and how do you apply it correctly?
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know regarding dental cap glues including what to look for, how it can be used, the best products available, and how to apply it for a pain-free solution.
What is Dental Cap Glue?
Also referred to as dental crown adhesive or dental cement, dental cap glues are used to securely reattach loose crowns, caps, or bridges. Most dental crowns can be purchased from the pharmacy and are designed to be used as a quick-fix substitute for dental crowns.
There are two main types:
- Temporary dental cap glue: these are designed to be used at home and are intended for short term relief.
- Permanent Dental Cement: Used by Practitioners When Fitting or Repairing a Crown
Always opt for temporary dental glue for DIY repairs until you visit a dentist.
Why Do Dental Crowns Become Loose?
Before using dental cap glue, it is important to know why crowns may come off:
- Cavities beneath the crown may weaken the hold.
- Grinding or chewing hard foods may lead to wear and tear.
- Old adhesive may deteriorate, leading to loss of grip.
- A structural issue or damage to the crown may lead to improper seating.
These underlying problems remain even if you utilize dental glue, but it can help alleviate pain and prevent damage until a dental professional is consulted.
Top Unsurpassed Advantages of Using Dental Cap Glue
There are many benefits to using dental cap glue as a temporary measure.
- Defends exposed nerves or the tooth from further harm.
- Were mitigated due to blocked airflow, or food and beverage contact.
- Restores the ability to chew food on that quadrant of the mouth.
- Provides a makeshift solution until an appointment is available.
Top-Recommended Over-the-Counter Dental Cap Glues
Dental adhesives available in the market differ in quality and effectiveness. Here is a list of the most reliable and accessible dental cap glues that are very simple to locate and utilize:
1. Dentemp Repair-It Dental Cement
- One of the best alternatives available for do-it-yourself dental repairs.
- Effective for loos caps and crowns and for lost fillings.
- Sets quickly and the hold is quite strong.
- Absence of zinc and is safe for sensitive teeth.
2. Recapit Dental Cement by Majestic Drug
- Meant specifically for recementing loose crowns.
- Comes with a no-mix easy-to-use applicator.
- Provides adequate hold until dental consult is available.
3. DenTek Temparin Max Repair Kit
- One of the most sought after products for dental cap glue.
- Maintains temporary hold for crowns and fillings.
- Comes in a pre-mixed applicator for easy dispensing.
Dental products should be carefully inspected for their instructions and expiry date prior to their use.
How to Use Dental Cap Glue at Home (Step-by-Step)
This is a step-by-step guide for safely using dental cap glue to reattach a loose crown:
Step 1: Clean the Area
Using warm water to rinse your mouth can remove any food particles. In case the crown has fallen out, you may want to gently brush it using a soft toothbrush or a cotton swab. Do not scrub vigorously.
Step 2: Dry Thoroughly
Using a cotton pad or a soft tissue, dry the tooth as well as the interior of the crown gently. A dry surface will enhance the bonding capabilities of the dental cap glue.
Step 3: Apply the Glue
Scoop a little dental cap glue and place it inside the crown. Avoid using excess as this will result in overflow when you press the crown to your tooth.
Step 4: Position the Crown
Crown should be gently placed back to the tooth and should be aligned properly. A gentle bite is required to confirm the crown is held in place for a few seconds.
Step 5: Let it Set
Refrain from eating or drinking anything for the next thirty minutes. This will allow the glue to set. You can eat soft foods for the next few hours.
Precautions When Using Dental Cap Glue
While dental cap glue can be useful, there are some key considerations to keep in mind, which include:
- Not a permanent solution – dental cap glue serves as a temporary solution, and dental glue needs to be professionally assessed and repaired afterwards.
- Don’t use superglue, or any other glue not designed for dental use – other adhesives could severely damage the tooth.
- Monitor for pain or swelling – If pain occurs or persists post application, the dental cap should be removed and the patient should consult their dentist as soon as possible.
Scenarios Where Dental Cap Glue Should Not Be Used
These are some situations where dental cap glue should not be used:
- Underlying tooth is infected or fractured.
- Cracked or damaged crown.
- Severe symptoms such as bleeding, pus, or debilitating pain.
- Crown falling off repeatedly indicating a more serious problem.
Such cases require immediate attention, and should not be dealt with a do it yourself approach.
Common Concerns: Dental Cap Glue
Q1: How long is dental cap glue effective for?
The duration for dental crown glue differs from brand to brand, with an average lasting 1 to 3 days. As a reminder, it should only be used temporarily.
Q2: Is it alright for me to eat after dental glue has been applied?
Yes, it is allowed after 30 minutes dental work has been done. Soft foods should be preferred while the side with the treated crown should not be chewed.
Q3: Is it safe to use cap dental glue?
It is safe to use as long as it is labeled as dental glue. Do not use everyday glue.
Q4: Is it applicable for veneers and bridges?
Some dental glues might work for bridges temporarily but not for veneers. It is best to speak to your dentist for guides.
Conclusions:
With the right tools, dental glue can be a effective home remedy.
These types of dental cap glue are easy to use and can be applied without the supervision of a dentist. They allow safe and simple methods while restricting movement for the crown to be seated without adding extra discomfort until the dental appointment.
It can make an individual temporarily comfortable and allow a freed set of movements but it should never be an alternative for a dental professional.
