A simple method for cleaning zinc oxide–eugenol provisional cement residues from the intaglio surface of casting restorations

Abstract

Restorations may be provisionally cemented to allow the patient and dentist to assess esthetics and function over a period of time. Zinc oxide–eugenol cements are commonly used for provisional cementation. The performance of definitive luting agents may be decreased if the restoration is contaminated with water, blood, saliva, or provisional cement residues. Therefore the restoration and tooth should be cleaned before definitive cementation. The intaglio surfaces of cast restorations may be airborne-particle abraded using 50m aluminum oxide; however, airborne-particle abrasion may abrade the polished surfaces or margins. Alternative methods for cleaning castings include steam cleaning, ultrasonic, and organic solvents. Airborne-particle abrasion and the ultrasonic method may be more effective, but the use of organic solvents to clean restorations is simple. Common ZOE organic solvents used for this purpose include alcohol (ethanol), soap, chloroform, and eucalyptus oil. One ZOE organic solvent (Solitine; Kerr Italia, Salerno, Italy) is included with a ZOE impression material package (Luralite; Kerr Italia) used for cleaning patients’ faces. This article describes the use of solitine to clean provisional cement from restorations.