Dufour Dental Hygiene understands that dental issues can sometimes arise unexpectedly. When immediate access to a dentist isn’t available, Interim Stabilization Therapy (IST) offers an important temporary solution — helping manage dental decay, relieve discomfort, and protect your teeth until definitive dental treatment can be arranged.
Interim Stabilization Therapy is a temporary restorative procedure. It involves applying a fluoride-releasing material, typically a glass ionomer cement, to areas affected by dental decay. This approach helps to:
IST is ideal for individuals who:
Immediate Relief: Alleviates pain and sensitivity quickly.
Non-Invasive: Requires no drilling or anesthesia, making it a gentle and patient-friendly option.
Fluoride Protection: Releases fluoride to promote natural tooth repair and protection.
Preservation: Maintains tooth integrity until more extensive treatment can be completed.
Flexible Accessibility: Suitable for clients of all ages and available through our in-clinic or mobile services.
We perform a careful evaluation to confirm that IST is the right option for your dental needs.
We gently clean the cavity or affected area, removing debris and preparing it for treatment.
A fluoride-releasing material is carefully applied to stabilize the tooth, protect it from further decay, and encourage remineralization.
We'll provide instructions on how to care for the treated area and schedule follow-up care to ensure your continued oral health.
IST is a temporary solution: It is crucial to follow up with a dentist for permanent restorative work such as fillings, crowns, or other treatments.
Not suitable for severe infections: Teeth with significant abscesses, deep infection, or structural collapse will require more advanced care.
If you’re experiencing discomfort, visible tooth decay, or need a temporary solution to protect your oral health, Interim Stabilization Therapy can help.
