Reflection on Dental Cements and Chemical Bonding with Teeth

What type of cement does not form a chemical bond with the tooth?

a) Portland cement

b) Glass ionomer cement

c) Zinc phosphate cement

d) Zinc oxide eugenol cement

Final answer: Zinc oxide eugenol cement does not form a chemical bond with the tooth, unlike Portland cement, Glass ionomer cement, and Zinc phosphate cement, which do bond chemically.

Answer:

The cement that does not form a chemical bond with the tooth is Zinc oxide eugenol cement. Unlike Portland cement, Glass ionomer cement, and Zinc phosphate cement that chemically bond to the tooth structure, Zinc oxide eugenol cement acts primarily as a sedative dressing or a temporary cement and does not chemically adhere to the tooth structure.

Explanation

Zinc oxide eugenol cement is commonly used in dentistry for its sedative properties and temporary applications. Unlike other dental cements, it does not engage in chemical bonding with the tooth structure. Instead, it provides a mechanical bond, which helps in its temporary fixation role.

The absence of a chemical bond with the tooth allows for easier removal of Zinc oxide eugenol cement when necessary without causing damage to the tooth structure. While Portland cement, Glass ionomer cement, and Zinc phosphate cement form chemical bonds that contribute to their durability and strength in dental restorations, Zinc oxide eugenol cement serves a different purpose in the dental field.

Therefore, understanding the specific properties and bonding mechanisms of different dental cements is crucial for dental professionals to choose the most appropriate material for each clinical scenario.

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