Product Evaluation

A highly satisfied patient is a dentist’s dream come true, but that dream can be squashed in seconds if the patient returns the next day with a crown in hand. Whether it’s a crown that debonds, a composite shade that fades, or a complaint of postop sensitivity, a botched restoration will quickly turn that satisfaction into frustration that brings the patient rushing back for repairs.

With SDI’s revolutionary ionglass technology, Riva Cem Automix ensures long-term patient satisfaction with its superior bond strength and stable esthetic properties. The cement checked all the boxes for Dr. Marisol King, who was searching for an “improved cementation protocol with a spot cure option, easier cleanup, and a good viscosity.”

“Riva Cem Automix is a great product,” determined Dr. King after using the self-curing, fluoride-releasing, paste/paste resin-modified glass ionomer cement for several weeks in her practice. “The cap/tip is absolutely fantastic, the viscosity is excellent, cementation is more efficient, and the light cure/spot cure feature makes cleanup an absolute breeze.”

For Dr. Craig Aebli, “Riva Cem Automix made crown cementation less stressful without problems.” After using it for several weeks, he said, “No one has come back with a crown in their hand, and I received no postop complaints from patients,” which is a win-win for the patient and practice.

Automix Dispensing

The evaluators were impressed with the material’s convenient, automix tip attachment, which saves time compared to traditional hand-mixed cement systems, while reducing waste. Calling Riva Cem Automix “easy to use with many types of restorations,” Dr. Nadim Baba said, “It’s economical with little waste, and its physical properties are a plus.” Noting that it was “easy to mix and use,” Dr. Derrick Chua said, “It speeds up the workflow and cuts waste.” Appreciating that no mixing was needed, Dr. Wayne Berman “liked the dispenser system and smooth process,” and Dr. George Dimitri called the cement “easy to dispense and effective.”

“The dispensing tips are great and allow me to use less cement, which reduces waste,” said Dr. Byron Davis. Describing the cement as “great,” Dr. Jodi Lampert said, “I liked the ease of removal, which made appointments go smoother.” When asked what he liked best about Riva Cem Automix, Dr. Robert Miller responded, “The smaller tips allow less waste, which saves money.” Dr. Baba suggested having another syringe size containing more material for larger cases.

Versatility and Ease of Cleanup

Indicated for permanent cementation of metal and ceramic restorations, Riva Cem Automix comprises a unique blend of different-sized reactive glass particles that release ions to cross-link polycarboxylic acid chains. This focused ion release gives the cement its exceptional bond strength for reliable adhesion to enamel and dentin. In addition, the material exhibits color stability for optimal esthetic results, and a tack cure option allows for easy cleanup of excess cement.

“I was seeking a high-adhesion, low-sensitivity permanent cement for crowns and bridges, inlays, onlays, and posts,” said Dr. Alan Pressman, who found all that and more with Riva Cem Automix. Describing the cement as “simple to use and versatile with low sensitivity,” he determined, “Overall, I was happy with the material.”

Appreciating that Riva Cem Automix “is easy to clean after setting,” Dr. Baba said, “It came in handy” when a crown needed to be cemented quickly for a patient with a heavy gag reflex. “After tack cure, the cement seems to stay together and cleans up very easily,” shared Dr. Davis, while Dr. Jason Wasserman suggested easier cleanup with the tack cure.

Final Results

After using Riva Cem Automix to cement a 5-unit lithium disilicate bridge on teeth Nos. 27–31 for a highly sensitive patient with heavy saliva, Dr. Pressman said the patient had “no postop sensitivity.” Reporting that “no crowns came out while we’ve been using the cement,” Dr. Wasserman said his patients experienced “minimal sensitivity on insert” and “no issues with postop sensitivity.”

While searching for a solution to treat “recurrent decay on an endodontically treated tooth,” Dr. Cynthia Leung said Riva Cem Automix “fulfills all the criteria we are looking for as a self-curing, radiopaque, fluoride-releasing, paste/paste RMGI luting cement.” Noting that reliable adhesion is the most critical element of a cement, Dr. Pressman acknowledged that he needs more time “to see long-term effects on my patients.” Dr. Robert Miller agreed that the material’s adhesive properties cannot be evaluated in a short-term trial, but he looks forward to seeing the long-term results.

Overall Satisfaction

“Riva Cem Automix makes the cementation process easy and clean,” shared Dr. Baba. Dr. King praised its “improved efficiency and cleanup” and called it “excellent overall.” Noting plans to purchase it in the future, Dr. Pressman concluded, “SDI makes some awesome materials, and it’s always fun to play with new toys.”