DENTAL LUTING AGENTS - A REVIEW OF THE CURRENT LITERATURE

Statement of problem. The practice of fixed prosthodontic has changed dramatically with the introduction of innovative techniques and materi als. Adhesive resin systems are examples of these changes that have le d to the popularity of bonded ceramics and resin-retained fixed partia l dentures. Today's dentist has the choice of a water-based luting age nt (zinc phosphate, zinc polycarboxylate, glass ionomer, or reinforced zinc oxide-eugenol) or a resin system with or without an adhesive. Re cent formulations of glass ionomer luting agents include resin compone nts (resin-modified glass ionomers), which are increasingly popular in clinical practice. Purpose. This review summarizes the research on th ese systems with the goal of providing information that will help the reader choose the most suitable material. Material. The scientific stu dies have been evaluated in relation to the following categories: (1) biocompatibility, (2) caries or plaque inhibition, (3) microleakage, ( 4) strength and other mechanical properties, (5) solubility, (6) water sorption, (7) adhesion, (5) setting stresses, (9) wear resistance, (1 0) color stability, (11) radiopacity;, (12) film thickness or viscosit y, and (13) working and setting times. In addition, guidelines on luti ng-agent manipulation are related to available literature and include: (1) temporary cement removal, (2) smear layer removal, (3) powder/liq uid ratio, (4) mixing temperature and speed, (5) seating force and vib ration, and (6) moisture control. Tables of available products and the ir properties are also presented together with current recommendations by; the authors with a rationale.