In modern dentistry, fixatives play a vital role, helping dentists maintain the stability and effectiveness of treatments during various dental procedures. As technology continues to advance, a wide variety of new dental cement materials have become available, each with its own unique properties and recommendations for use. So, how do you choose the most suitable dental fixative among the many options?
In dental care, cements can be broadly classified into several categories, including zinc oxide cements, glass ionomer cements, polymer-based cements, and others. Each type of cement has its specific range of application, allowing dentists to use it skillfully during surgery to achieve the best results.
Zinc oxide cement is widely used due to its self-hardening properties, especially in root canal treatment and temporary sealing.
Zinc oxide cement is the first choice of many dentists due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of removal. It has strong antibacterial properties and can provide short-term protection without causing damage to the teeth, but in some cases it may affect the final restoration material and should be used with caution.
Glass ionomer cement is widely accepted in treatment because it bonds well to tooth structure and releases fluoride ions to prevent tooth decay.
This type of cement is not only suitable for fillings and veneers, but can also be used to secure crowns and other restorative materials. Its natural compatibility and good strength make it one of the materials commonly used by dentists.
Polymer-based cement introduces new technology in building materials, which is an important upgrade to traditional cement.
It has excellent wear resistance and adhesion, and is suitable for use in high-pressure environments, especially in clinical permanent restorations. However, the cost of this type of cement is relatively high and its economic feasibility needs to be considered when using it.
When selecting the appropriate dental cement, dentists need to consider many factors, including the type of treatment being performed, the physical properties of the material, and the specific needs of the patient. The characteristics of each material should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Different types of treatment will affect the type of cement required. Temporary filling and fixation have different requirements, so when choosing, you should fully understand the patient's specific situation and choose the appropriate material.
Considering the strength, wear resistance and water absorption properties of cement will directly affect its clinical application. It is crucial to select materials that will remain stable over long-term use.
The needs of different patients will also affect the choice of materials. For example, some patients may be allergic to certain types of materials, so choosing a biocompatible material that is suitable for them is essential.
With the advancement of technology and the development of new materials, the performance of dental cement will continue to improve. In the future, dentists will be able to choose cements that are more aesthetically pleasing and functional, providing patients with the best treatment options.
In this era of increasing diversity in dental cements, are we ready to choose the fixative that best suits our needs?