I’ve been seeing some videos about DIY tooth repair. There is tooth filling material at the drug store.  Is this a legit thing?  I’ve had a toothache and have been putting off going to the dentist because…well, I’m a dental chicken.  I’m wondering if this DIY is the solution I’ve been looking for, but don’t want to waste time on something that doesn’t actually work.

Marvin G. – Alabama

Marvin,

I’m glad you asked this, because it will save you serious trouble down the road.  That tooth filling material you see at the pharmacy is meant to be a temporary stop gap until you get to the dentists–at the most a few days. It’s useful if you lost a filling and are waiting for your appointment or are out of town.

I don’t know which videos you are referring to, but wondered how did they propose you get out the infected and / or material?  That’s an important step that can’t be ignored.   Otherwise, you’re leaving the infection.  It’s like wrapping a bandage on a broken arm.

Don’t feel bad about being a dental chicken. Around 20% of American’s are.  I don’t know if you have a dentist or not, but if you do, ask him or her to use dental sedation during your appointment. It will allow you to get your infection cared for without pain.

If you don’t have a dentist, an emergency dentist will see you, usually the same day, even if you’re not an established patient.  I would make sure they do sedation as well.  It will give you  a much more pleasant  dental experience and will help you with the dental anxiety you’ve been experiencing.

This blog is brought to you by Phoenix Dentist Dr. Kevin Peck.