Interim Stabilization Therapy (IST) is a temporary restorative procedure which arrests dental decay through a therapeutic release of fluoride, leading to remineralization of the interface layer between the dentin and the temporary cement, thereby stabilizing the tooth structure until a permanent restoration can be placed.
The primary reasons that a dental hygienist would consider the insertion of a temporary restoration are to free the client from pain and to reduce the possibility of further damage to the tooth until the client is able to see a dentist.
The therapy’s stabilizing benefits are particularly beneficial to vulnerable populations including the frail and the elderly and those populations with limited access to dental care.