Temporary cements play a critical role in retaining provisional restorations to the extent that preventing premature dislodgment of provisionals can directly impact the outcome of the restorative process. Not only do these materials protect prepared teeth from bacteria and thermal insults, they stabilize the provisional appliance, maintaining functionality and esthetics until final restoration placement. In some cases, “temporary” isn’t synonymous with “short-term.” For longer-lasting provisional restorations, it’s especially critical that a luting agent possesses certain properties to avoid issues such as cement washout, marginal leakage, bacterial infiltration and caries.
Much of cement selection depends upon clinical application—no one cement is perfect for every situation, but some qualities benefit all types of indications. Of high priority is balancing sufficient retention with easy removal of the temporary prosthesis so as not to damage or alter prepared surfaces. Likewise, good mechanical and adhesive properties, simplicity of excess clean-up, proper marginal seal (to mitigate sensitivity) and low solubility in oral fluids all promote restorative success. It’s also necessary to make sure temporary cements are compatible with other procedural materials such as provisional resin restorations, resin core materials, bonding agents and permanent cements.
Clinicians should be aware that not all temporary cements are created equally. Common commercially available temporary cements fall into four main composition types: polycarboxylate, zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE), zinc oxide noneugenol (ZONE) and resin-based. Polycarboxylate cements can reduce post-operative sensitivity while promoting easy clean-up and strong retention, though may be difficult to remove. ZOE cements are most often chosen for their proven sedative and antibacterial effect on teeth, but run the risk of negatively impacting bonds between resin materials and definitive restorations. In lieu of eugenol, ZONE cements contain carboxylic acids which do not interfere with definitive cementation. ZONE cements are highly compatible with both provisional and permanent resin materials and provide better retention than ZOE cements but at the cost of a sedative effect.
A newer class of materials, resin-based temporary cements offer multiple advantages over other options. These cements combine high strength and excellent retentive properties with easy clean-up and removability when needed. Premier Dental’s NexTemp® is a prime example of today’s advanced resin-based temporary cements and is designed for convenience and consistency. NexTemp’s unique eugenol-free formula contains potassium nitrate, chlorhexidine and fluoride which work to reduce post-op sensitivity. The formula also helps ensure long-lasting marginal seals, eliminating microleakage and washout. With minimal application and two-stage curing, NexTemp provides exceptional retention and makes clean-up quick and simple for the clinician, while providing the patient with comfort and confidence.
To learn more about NexTemp and order the product for your practice, visit Premier’s website.