Cements & Ceramics: Keys to Achieving Optimal Results

Successful, long-term stability of indirect restorations in dentistry is highly dependent on the clinician understanding the relationship of tooth preparation style and the proper cement that it therefore dictates. There are various categories of cements, each with unique considerations. Not all cements can be used for all preparation types. The main indicator of cement choice for a given ceramic is not necessarily the ceramic itself but the type of preparation involved and whether the preparation is retentive or nonretentive. This article will discuss cements, ceramics, and both types of preparations, highlighting the steps involved in achieving predictable cementation.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Discuss differences between retentive and non-retentive preparations in regards to cementation of ceramic to tooth

• Identify three basic types of cements that are appropriate for retentive preparations

• Explain the distinctions between the priming of glass-based and zirconia/metal-based ceramics for cementation of non-retentive preparations

About the Author

Greg Gillespie, DDS
Private Practice, Vancouver, Washington