How to Get Cement Off Teeth?

Removing cement from teeth is a crucial aspect of maintaining oral health. There are different types of dental cement that are used for other purposes.

Resin-based cement is used for bonding crowns to teeth, while zinc oxide eugenol is commonly used as a temporary filling material.

Dental glue can also be used to attach orthodontic bands and seal pits in teeth to prevent decay. Improper use of dental cement causes much damage to the tooth structure.

You and your dentist must choose the appropriate way and tools for removing dental cement from the crown. You can get cement from teeth by using a scaler, flossing, and rinsing techniques.

What is Dental Cement (Dental Glue)?

The presence of a white, chalky substance between the teeth where the crown meets is a sign of dental cement. Discoloration around the crown is also another sign of dental cement.

Dental cement is a type of adhesive that dentists often use to bond crowns and other dental prosthetics to your natural teeth.

Its adhesive solid properties ensure a long-lasting attachment. Yet, over time, dental cement creates a layer of hardened residue around the crown, leading to difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene.

What Does Cement Do to Your Teeth?

Cement can cause damage to your enamel(outer side of teeth). Residual cement left on teeth harbors bacteria and plague, leading to potential oral health issues.

It also increases the risk of dental decay and staining. Failure to remove cement may cause demineralization, enamel erosion, and gum inflammation.

Permanent Vs Temporary Dental Cement

The permanent crown is more long-lasting than the primary crown. The permanent crown is made of ceramic porcelain, gold, and stainless steel.

At the same time, a temporary crown is made of composite resin or acrylic. Some temporary crowns are more challenging to remove than permanent crowns and cause damage to the tooth.

A permanent crown is a long-lasting solution, so you do not need to change it for 5 to 15 years. It develops a strong bond with restoration and teeth.

The cost of the temporary and permanent crowns varies depending on factors such as quantity and where you purchase them.

The cost of temporary cement is $5 to 20 dollars per unit, and the cost of permanent cement is $15 to 50 dollars per unit. 

How Do You Remove Dental Cement From Your Teeth at Home?

After the removal of dental braces from your dentist, some residue remains on your teeth. There are some techniques to remove leftover cement by yourself.

Make a paste of 2 teaspoons of baking soda and half a teaspoon of peroxide. So mix the peroxide slowly into baking soda to avoid a foamy mess.

Put the tip of an electric toothbrush into the baking soda and peroxide mixture. Move the mixture over your teeth for 2 minutes at medium to high speed.

Then, use a dental pick to scrape at the dental cement gently. Brushing it with baking soda and peroxide makes it soft enough that you can remove it, but probably not in the first sitting.

Use caution when scraping, as accidental removal of the enamel could lead to softening of the teeth and tooth decay.

Floss with waxed dental string to break the cement that crosses over the space between your teeth. Rinse your mouth after every brushing, picking, and flossing session to make sure you get rid of dental glue and any residue.

Professional Way to Remove Dental Cement From Your Teeth?

A professional way of removing cement is better than other ways. Dentists use different tools for the safe removal of dental cement without causing any damage to your teeth.

During the professional removal procedure, your dentist determines the most appropriate methods for removing the dental glue. The instruments include a dental drill and an air abrasion system.

The dentist starts the removal of cement by numbing the area with local anesthesia to make sure you do not feel any discomfort. Dentists remove the cement carefully so as not to disturb the position of teeth.

Removing leftover cement at home is risky. Professional ways of removing dental glue reduce the risk of future issues such as gum diseases.

If you want good health and secure long-lasting results for your crown, the professional way of removal is the best choice.

How to Remove Dental Cement From Teeth After Braces

Removing cement from teeth after braces is challenging. Here is the video link where you can see how to get cement off teeth after braces.

Best Tools to Remove Dental Cement From the Teeth

Here are the best tools to remove dental cement from your teeth:

Dental Scalers:

Dentists use these to remove hardened deposits like tartar and plaque. They can also remove dental cement without harming the teeth.

Ultrasonic Scalers:

These use high-frequency vibrations to break down and remove stubborn deposits, including dental cement. They are gentle and cause minimal discomfort to patients.

Dental Burs:

These are rotary instruments specifically designed to remove excess cement and come in different shapes and sizes to fit other procedures.

Hand Instruments:

Dentists use handheld tools like chisels and curettes for precise control and gentle removal of excess cement especially in delicate areas.

Composite Removal Burs:

These burs are used to remove composite materials, including dental cement, without damaging the tooth structure.

Dental Abrasives:

These are polishing discs and strips used for non-invasive removal of superficial layers of dental cement. They are helpful for getting a smooth finish.

Air Abrasion Systems:

These use compressed air to remove dental cement and other materials gently. They are precise and minimally invasive.

Rotary Instruments:

These diamond and carbide burs are used to remove excess dental cement efficiently while preserving tooth integrity.

Polishing Brushes:

These brushes come in different shapes and sizes and are instrumental in removing residual cement particles and restoring the natural luster of the teeth after cement removal.

Composite Cement Removers:

These are specially formulated solutions designed to dissolve and remove hardened dental cement. They offer a convenient and effective solution for gentle cement removal without mechanical intervention.

Reasons to Remove Dental Cement

Dental cement holds the dental crown in place so it does not become dislodged. However, due to factors such as poor oral hygiene, grinding teeth, and more dental cement, it can become hardened, making removal crucial.

Dental crowns are secure in place with adhesive. They stay in place while talking, drinking, and eating. But with time, cement becomes more hardened, and it needs to be removed from the dental crown to fit.

Pros of Dental Cement

1. Durability: Dental cement offers exceptional durability, ensuring that dental restorations withstand the rigors of everyday use, promoting longevity.
2. Versatility: Its versatility allows for a wide range of applications, from securing crowns and bridges to sealing cavities, catering to diverse dental needs.
3. Biocompatibility: Many dental cement formulations are biocompatible, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions and promoting oral health compatibility.
4. Ease of Use: Dental cement is relatively easy to apply, facilitating streamlined dental procedures and ensuring patient comfort.
5. Aesthetics: Some types of dental cement boast aesthetic benefits, seamlessly blending with natural tooth color for an aesthetically pleasing finish.

Cons of Dental Cement

1. Sensitivity: Certain individuals may experience dental sensitivity following the application of dental cement, mainly if the cement layer is too thick or if there’s an underlying issue with tooth structure.
2. Potential for Dislodgment: In some cases, dental cement may fail to provide a secure bond, leading to the dislodgment of prosthetic devices or restorations, necessitating additional interventions.
3. Limited Strength: While durable, dental cement may exhibit limitations in strength compared to alternative materials, potentially compromising the integrity of restorations under excessive pressure.
4. Risk of Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may develop allergic reactions to components found in dental cement formulations, highlighting the importance of thorough patient assessment and monitoring.
5. Difficulty in Removal: Removing dental cement can be challenging, requiring specialized tools and techniques, which may pose problems in cases of necessary restoration adjustments or replacements.

FAQs

Can you remove braces and damaged enamel?

Some changes occur in enamel after removing braces. It may include white spots on teeth, differences in the structure of enamel, tooth sensitivity, and natural enamel color appearance.

How long can you leave dental cement in?

Dental cement on teeth remains for 5 to 15 years without damaging your teeth.

What dissolves dental cement?

Your dentist uses a definite solution to remove dental cement from a crown. This solution consists of an organic solution with a COOH radical. Citric acid also helps in dissolving dental glue.

Is dental cement easy to remove?

Dental cement is tricky to remove but becomes easy with valuable tools.

Is Temporary Dental Cement Safe to Swallow?

Yes, swallowing a temporary dental cement is safe and causes no harm to your teeth.

How Long Does Dental Cement Last?

Dental cement last on your crown for over 15 years.

What if Dental Cement Gets Lodged in Gum Tissue?

It should be removed immediately because it causes gum diseases.

My Opinion

Removing dental cement from a crown at home is an easy process with the right tools. Through diligent brushing, flossing, and rinsing techniques, individuals can minimize the risk of dental decay associated with residual cement.

By following the step-by-step guidance in this article, you can remove dental cement, promoting optimal oral comfort. Remember the precautions; if you find any difficulty, then consult your dentist.