What Are the Chemicals Used in Dental Cement?

Common dental adhesives contain chemicals such as zinc phosphate and polycarboxylate, zinc oxides, polyalkenoate, and resin cement. Different chemicals give each cement properties that are more suitable for different applications, from bridges to crowns.

Temporary Restoration

• Zinc oxide compounds are suitable for procedures involving temporary adhesion.

Adhesion to Natural Teeth

• Zinc polycarboxylate and glass polyalkenoate cements will allow adhesion to tooth structure. Glass polyalkenoate is well-suited for geriatric dentistry because it can release fluoride and chemically bond to teeth. This is effective for erosion cavities and root caries.

Veneers and Composite Inlays

• Resin-based cements are popular for attaching or inserting veneers and inlays to existing teeth.

Cavities, Root Canal and Periodontal Work

• Zinc oxide-eugenol, polyalkenoate and resin cements are suitable for lining cavities. Root canal sealants and periodontal dressings use zinc oxide-eugenol.

Crowns and Bridges

• Glass polyalkenoate, polycarboxylate and zinc phosphate are used to permanently cement crowns. Glass polyalkenoate and zinc phosphate, which are more rigid cements that resist deformation, can stabilize long span bridges.