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Now, more than ever, there is a need for simple, predictable, non-sensitive cementation techniques for indirect restorations—especially all-ceramic restorations.

The evolution of CAD-CAM ceramic restorations, especially zirconium-based restorations, has made indirect restorative dentistry more predictable than ever before. Dental professionals can expect more exact margins, contacts, and occlusion from CAD-CAM produced restorations,¹ as dental laboratories are now able to produce these restorations with robotic technology that allows for higher quality that is also cost effective.

Although these restorations have exacting fits, their retentiveness is not as great as traditional porcelain-metal restorations. Ceramic restorations benefit from adhesive cementation.² Many clinicians have been reluctant to prescribe “bonded” restorations because of a difficulty in conditioning tooth preparations with conventional phosphoric acid/hybridization adhesive techniques. Many times, sulcular hemorrhaging and subsequent tooth sensitivity occurred.

THE REASON FOR RESIN

Resin cements are the most versatile and widely used cements for nonmetallic restorations, resin-bonded bridges, porcelain veneers, and ceramic and resin crowns, inlays, and onlays.³ Resin cements are especially popular for cementation of metal and resin fiber posts. Trends in conservation of tooth structure lend towards creating more anatomic and minimal root canal preparations and hence, more conservative post preparations. Resin cements with dentin bonding agents improve post retention when post lengths are less then ideal.⁴

Research shows that resin cement is one of the least soluble of all the major categories of restorative cements.⁵ In spite of the multiple uses for resin cements and the advantages in physical properties and retention, clinicians have asked for a simple resin cementation protocol that limits the steps for bonding, requires simple clean-up, and eliminates post operative sensitivity.

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