What Is a Dental Cement?
Dental cement is an essential adhesive used in various dental procedures, playing a pivotal role in bonding dental structures and restorations, such as fillings or crowns, to the natural tooth. These cements are primarily divided into three categories based on their composition: glass-based, resin-based, and metal-based, each tailored to meet specific requirements and offering unique properties for dental applications. Dental cements are made from a combination of powder and liquid components that, when mixed, initiate a chemical reaction leading to the curing of the cement and the formation of an adhesive film. This film facilitates a secure and durable bond between the dental restoration and the tooth.
These cements find extensive use in various dental procedures, including filling cavities, restoring dental crowns, orthodontic applications, and providing temporary restorations. Key features of dental cements include their exceptional bonding strength, resistance to water and wear, biocompatibility ensuring safety for use in the human body, and aesthetic properties that make them suitable for visible areas of the mouth.