Critical Appraisal

Abstract

Many dentists still view zinc phosphate as the “gold standard” for luting cast and porcelain‐fused‐to‐metal restorations. Introduced in 1879, zinc phosphate cement has withstood the test of time and gained a reputation for reliability despite its nonadhesive qualities and association with postcementation sensitivity when handled improperly. Hewer classes of luting cements have been introduced, including polycarboxylate, glass ionomer, resin‐reinforced (resin‐modified) glass ionomer, and resin composite. Several of these materials have advantages over zinc phosphate, including adhesion to alloys and tooth structure, fluoride release, and improved physical properties. Conversely, they also exhibit some disadvantages, such as higher cost, complex handling requirements, and adhesive qualities that can make retrieval of castings impossible. This “Critical Appraisal” reviews recent articles dealing with newer luting cements in an effort to give readers some assistance in their selection and use. Two publications address the effect of handling and manipulation variables on the physical properties of various cements. Another in vitro investigation highlights the margin sealing effect of resin‐modified glass ionomer composite (GIC) with and without saliva contamination. Finally, a large retrospective study reports clinical outcomes of anterior and posterior alumina core all‐ceramic crowns luted with a resin‐modified GIC. The significance of each publication is discussed below.

<i>Ocimum americanum </i>L<i>.</i> Essential Oil Exhibits Antimicrobial Activity Against Oral Bacteria Related to Periodontal Disease

“…The disease includes a group of pathological alterations of the periodontal tissue. The commonest forms of the disease are gingivitis and periodontitis which are plaque-associated pathologies [1]. Gingivitis is very common and is characterized by reversible inflammation in the marginal periodontal tissues while periodontitis is an inflammation-based infection of the support structure of the teeth.…”