NCFE Dental Nursing Practice Test 2025 - Free Dental Nursing Practice Questions and Study Guide

Zinc polycarboxylate cement is well-known for its adhesive properties, particularly to dentine surfaces. This characteristic is due to the interaction between the polyacrylic acid in the cement and the calcium ions present in the dentine, which forms a chelation bond. This bond helps create a strong, durable bond between the filling material and the tooth structure, making it particularly effective for temporary fillings where retention and stability are important while a permanent solution is arranged.

In contrast, the other materials listed have varying properties that do not provide the same level of adhesion to dentine. For example, gutta-percha, while often used in root canal filling, is more flexible and does not adhere well to dentine. Zinc oxide and eugenol cement, while having some adhesive qualities, are known primarily for their soothing effects on the pulp and are not as adhesive compared to zinc polycarboxylate. Zinc phosphate cement, although historically used for luting and temporary fillings, tends to be less adhesive to dentine due to its water-soluble nature and acidic components, which can interfere with bonding.

Thus, the unique properties of zinc polycarboxylate cement make it the most suitable choice as the most adhesive temporary filling material for