What is a temporary dental restoration typically used for?

A temporary dental restoration is primarily utilized for emergency relief in various situations, such as managing pain, protecting exposed dentin or pulp, or covering a tooth that has suffered trauma until a more permanent solution can be implemented. This type of restoration allows for symptom control and can provide patients with the necessary comfort until they receive a definitive treatment plan.

The usage of temporary restorations is particularly critical in dentistry when immediate treatment is not feasible or while waiting for a permanent restoration, like a crown or filling, to be prepared. This affords the dentist time to assess the situation thoroughly, plan for the next steps, and ensures the patient does not experience prolonged discomfort or complications.

In contrast, permanent restorations refer to long-lasting solutions that replace or repair teeth, tooth whitening focuses on aesthetic improvements, and orthodontic treatment deals with the alignment of teeth and jaws, thus not relating to the emergency relief aspect provided by temporary restorations.