If a provisional cemented with resin becomes loose within 14 days, what is the most likely cause or treatment?

When a provisional crown becomes loose within 14 days after being cemented with resin, the most likely cause is related to the mechanical or adhesive properties of the resin cement or the fit of the provisional itself. In most cases, recementing the provisional is the appropriate treatment. This approach will allow for the provisional to be repositioned with an appropriate adhesive to restore stability while maintaining the functional and esthetic characteristics until the final restoration can be placed.

This option is particularly suited for cases where the initial fitting has been adequate and only a failure of adhesion has occurred. It can often save time and resources, allowing for immediate continuation of the treatment plan while providing the patient with a temporary solution.

Choosing to replace the provisional would typically involve more extensive work and might not address the underlying issue leading to the loosening. Switching to temporary cement does not address the stability requirement needed for the provisional and may lead to further complications or instability. Immediate extraction is not warranted unless there are other significant issues presenting with the tooth or provisional. Therefore, recementing is directly aligned with addressing the situation efficiently.