NuSmile’s BioCem Universal BioActive Cement is a high performance luting cement with unique bioactive components that form hydroxyapatite, which is available to integrate with and replenish tooth structure.
“BioCem’s ease of use, ease of cleanup, dual cure and radiopaque properties make it a very attractive product to use. The fact that it is antimicrobial and bioactive adds further benefit,” reported a general dentist who evaluated NuSmile’s BioCem. Fourteen dentists–6 prosthodontists, 7 general dentists, and 1 pediatric dentist–evaluated BioCem for DPS after using the material for about 4 weeks.
Ease of Handling and Working/Setting Time
Manufacturer Description: BioCem is a 2-paste system dispensed in a double-barreled syringe and delivered through a low-waste, auto-mix tip. With optimal consistency, handling, and curing properties, restorations can be easily seated and properly positioned.
BioCem begins to cure immediately when mixed and has a 60-second working time under operatory light. The material self-cures in 2 minutes, and curing can be accelerated by using a curing light.
Evaluator Feedback: Many evaluators commented about the handling properties of BioCem, and some remarks were, “It was easy to work with,” “The ease of handling was superior,” “The company has made mixing tips the exact size in length to perfectly blend product and minimize product waste,” and “Quick and easy to use. Makes life easier.” A prosthodontist noticed that “the dispensing of the material in some tips is inconsistent,” and another dentist recommended “a delivery system that does not require a mixing tip as this adds expense and material waste, but other than that, BioCem is definitely a material that I would use in my practice.”
Regarding curing time, a California dentist liked “the option of light curing to accelerate the setting time,” and a Michigan prosthodontist liked the “quick setting time.” Another evaluator commented, “The pulse cure time…is 10 seconds–most [other cements] are 3 to 5.”
Initial Bond Strength
Manufacturer Description: BioCem provides a superior bond between dentin and glass ceramic, zirconia, stainless steel, or pre-veneered crowns. With a flexural strength of 88.4 MPa/12,800 PSI and a compressive strength of 210 MPa/30,500 PSI, BioCem also has shock absorbing properties that ensure the longevity of the restoration. In addition, BioCem forms hydroxyapatite that is available to integrate with existing tooth structure.
Evaluator feedback: Although DPS asked the evaluators about initial bond strength, a few evaluators commented that they couldn’t adequately evaluate bond strength in a short-term evaluation. An Arizona dentist, who said she would like to see “better initial strength,” reported, “Great cement. [I’m] anxious to see the longevity of the bond strength.” Another evaluator said he was “not sure about bonding” and “would have to see over time.”
Lack of Sensitivity and Ease of Clean-up
Manufacturer Description: Available in an extra light shade, BioCem contains important remineralization properties including phosphate, calcium and fluoride. As hydroxyapatite forms at the cement/ tooth interface, it is available to fill exposed dental tubules and may help eliminate post-operative tooth sensitivity.
Evaluator Feedback: “This is one of the easiest cements to cleanup and has very little sensitivity post cementation. It actually calms teeth down postoperatively,”reported a South Carolina prosthodontist who rated all features of BioCem as excellent. A Virginia prosthodontist noted, “No sensitivity was reported (and since this feels like a RMGI, I was happy that it did not have the “cold” sensation experienced with other RMGIs).”
When asked what he liked best about BioCem, an evaluator from New York replied, “The lack of sensitivity was better than other cement products. This, in conjunction with the ease of cleaning up the cement, were the two advantages I liked in this product.” Another evaluator commented, “[The] easy clean-up without fear of residual cement stuck interproximally really made the daily process of cementing restorations simple.”
Overall Satisfaction
Some general comments from evaluators were, “No aftertaste (a common complaint with resin),” “The white is a bit too opaque,” “I would like to see more of the properties of this cement based on in vitro studies,” and “Good customer service!” When asked if they would recommend BioCem to colleagues, 13 evaluators said definitely or probably, and 11 said they would probably or definitely purchase the material. One evaluator, who rated his overall satisfaction as excellent, summarized, “I had the opportunity to evaluate many products over the last several years, and I incorporated some of them in my daily practice. BioCem will be one of them.”
