Best Temporary Filling Materials for Dentists in 2026

June 16, 2026

Choosing the right temporary filling material is critical in modern dentistry. Whether you’re sealing a root canal access cavity, placing an interim restoration, or managing a patient between appointments — the material you choose affects patient comfort, treatment success, and your clinical efficiency.

In this guide, we compare the most trusted temporary filling materials available in 2026, all of which are available at KedarCart with worldwide shipping.

1. 3M ESPE Cavit G — The Gold Standard

🏆 Best for: Root canal access cavity sealing, short-term temporization

Cavit G by 3M ESPE remains the most widely used temporary filling material globally. It is a self-hardening, moisture-activated paste that requires no mixing — making it extremely convenient for busy dental practices.

Key Features:

✨ No mixing required — ready to use straight from the tube
✨ Moisture-activated hardening — sets on contact with saliva
✨ Excellent marginal seal — prevents microleakage
✨ Radiopaque — visible on X-rays
✨ Available in 28g paste form

📌 Ideal for: Endodontic procedures, emergency appointments, and short-term cavity sealing (up to 1–2 weeks).

2. IRM (Intermediate Restorative Material)

🏆 Best for: Longer-term temporary restorations (up to 12 months)

IRM is a zinc oxide eugenol-based material that offers superior strength and durability compared to Cavit. It is ideal when a temporary restoration needs to last several months.

Key Features:

✨ High compressive strength
✨ Eugenol provides mild sedative effect on pulp
✨ Suitable for Class I and II cavities
✨ Long-term temporary use (up to 12 months)

⚠️ Note: Avoid using IRM under composite restorations as eugenol can inhibit polymerization.

3. Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC)

🏆 Best for: Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART), pediatric dentistry

Glass ionomer cements like GC Fuji 9 and 3M ESPE Ketac Molar are increasingly used as semi-permanent temporary restorations, especially in pediatric and community dentistry settings.

Key Features:

✨ Fluoride-releasing — helps prevent secondary caries
✨ Bonds chemically to tooth structure
✨ Biocompatible and well-tolerated
✨ Can be used as a definitive restoration in low-stress areas

Comparison Table

Material	Setting Time	Duration	Mixing	Best Use
3M ESPE Cavit G	2–3 min	1–2 weeks	No	Endodontic sealing
IRM	4–5 min	Up to 12 months	Yes	Long-term temporary
GC Fuji 9 / Ketac Molar	3–4 min	Semi-permanent	Yes	ART, pediatric

Which One Should You Choose?

Short gap (1–2 weeks)?

Cavit G

Need 3–12 months?

IRM

Pediatric or ART case?

GIC (Fuji 9 / Ketac)

Shop Temporary Filling Materials at KedarCart

All the materials mentioned in this guide are available at KedarCart with worldwide shipping to USA, UK, Canada, Australia, UAE, and more. We stock only authentic, original products from trusted manufacturers.

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