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The Hidden Use of Dental Cement: Why Does This Material Protect Your Teeth?
In modern dental treatment, dental cement has a wide range of applications, covering a variety of clinical and orthodontic needs. These seemingly inconspicuous materials actually play a very critical role. The following will explore the various uses of these cements and the scientific principles behind them.
Basic introduction to dental cement
Dental cement is a compound of powder and liquid that is mixed by hand before use. This property allows dentists to adjust their working time, quantity and consistency according to needs. With the development of technology, some cements such as glass ionomer cement (GIC) can also be mixed using mechanical mixing equipment.
Main uses of dental cement
The uses of dental cement include temporarily repairing teeth, filling cavities to protect dental pulp, and serving as an adhesive to fix restorations.
Temporary fix
One of the main uses of dental cement is as a temporary restorative material. Due to the low mechanical strength of dental cement, it is generally not suitable for long-term resistance to occlusal forces. Therefore, they are most often used for short-term repairs such as cold steel repairs, or prior to the application of more permanent materials.
Pulp protection
When tooth decay reaches close to the pulp, your dentist will use cement as a base or liner to protect the pulp from further damage. Suitable cements include zinc oxide-Eugene cement and zinc polycarboxylate cement, which not only provide protection but also have good biocompatibility.
Bonding cement
Cement can also be used to secure dental restorations, such as crowns and bridges. The composition of these cements is usually similar to restorative cements, but contains less binder and therefore has a lower viscosity. Common bonding cements include: glass ionomer cement (GIC) and polyzinc carboxylate cement.
Ideal properties of dental cement
The ideal dental cement should have properties such as high biocompatibility, good thermal insulation and low allergenic potential.
These properties are critical to the safety and effectiveness of dental materials. For example, zinc oxide-Eugene cement is widely used due to its low allergenic potential and good bonding properties, making it extremely effective in different dental applications.
Composition and classification of dental cement
The composition of dental cement is generally based on the compounds used in it and can be divided into the following categories:
- Water-based acid-base cement: such as zinc oxide-phosphate cement and glass ionomer cement.
- Non-aqueous/oil-based acid-base cement: such as zinc oxide Eugene cement.
- Resin-based cement: includes the latest generation of self-adhesive resin cement.
Side effects and contraindications of dental cement
Even though dental cement is safe in most clinical settings, some patients may have an allergic reaction to the chemicals in the cement.
It has been found that certain materials may cause allergic reactions such as ulcers and skin inflammation, and even cause severe systemic reactions. Dentists need to carefully consider a patient's individual circumstances before using these materials.
The future of dental cement
In the face of constantly advancing technology, the composition and application methods of dental cement are also constantly evolving. The new generation of resin-based cements and self-bonding cements are receiving increasing attention because of their superior performance in both aesthetics and practicality.
In summary, dental cements play a vital role in protecting teeth, and their diversity and functionality provide essential support for dental treatments. How will these cements be further improved and applied in the future?
