A luting agent is cement that your dentist uses to help secure a dental restoration such as a crown or fixed bridge — to your teeth. The purpose of dental cement is to make sure that your dental restorations stay fit in your mouth.
Qualities of an Ideal Luting Agent
It does not matter what type of restoration you are getting or the type of cement your dentist uses; all luting agents should have certain qualities, such as:
Resistance: Once the restoration is cemented it should not be affected by chewing.
Sensitivity: The cement should be resistant to hot and cold sensitivity. It should allow you to enjoy hot and cold foods and beverages.
Long life: The cement should have a long storage life without losing effectiveness
Bond strength: The cement should be able to bond to hard tooth surfaces.
Ease of use: It should allow the dentist to complete the restoration efficiently.
Anticavity properties: Last but not least the cement should help prevent the formation of decay in the restoration area.
Types of Luting Agents
Most conventional types of cement consist of liquid and powder. When mixed together, they form a chemical reaction, causing the cement to set. These are some of the common cement such as:
- Polycarboxylate: Your dental professional may use it as a final or intermediate cement for orthodontic purposes.
- Zinc phosphate: It has been in use very long and is considered a final or permanent cement.
- Glass ionomer: It can chemically bond to enamel and dentin. It also contains fluoride ions that provide further protection to the tooth structure.
If you want to have a deep understanding of which luting agent would be best for you, paying a visit to your dentist would be the best call. To book an appointment, call Sima Dental Family Dental Center, at 281-457-6444.