Abstract
Since their introduction in clinical dentistry, hydraulic cements have gained popularity. Their applications are diverse. Their usefulness is due to their hydraulic nature in that they do not deteriorate when wet, which is important for a number of clinical applications, as is the formation of calcium hydroxide as a by-product of the hydration reaction of the calcium silicates. The first hydraulic cement was a simple mixture of Portland cement, as used in the construction industry, with bismuth oxide to increase its radio-opacity. Regardless of being a hydraulic calcium silicate, it was initially incorrectly labelled as a phosphate cement misleadingly called “mineral trioxide aggregate”. Since then, beneficial clinical applications have led to the development of a number of materials with a different base, alternative vehicles, and incorporating modifiers of various kinds. Given the variety, and possible confusion, a rational classification of hydraulic cements used in dentistry is necessary. The classification is primarily dependent on the context in which the materials are used as this informs the user about the environment and possible interactions. Secondly, a classification based on the material constitution is given as knowledge of its chemistry will help predict behaviour, identify risks, and thus facilitate selection and handling.
Highlights
Hydraulic cements set by reaction with water; they can be employed in wet environments, but drying before complete reaction is detrimental
It may be noted that its first use as a dental material dates to the late nineteenth century [3] for an endodontic filler, and further developed by Schlenker [4], but it was not until Torabinejad patented it as “mineral trioxide aggregate” (“MTA”) [5] for “tooth filling” that it was taken up widely in clinical practice
For the hydraulic calcium silicates, these materials are all dependant on the cement chemistry, the modifiers used and whether the material is mixed with water or not
Summary
Hydraulic cements set by reaction with water (i.e., a hydration reaction); they can be employed in wet environments, but drying before complete reaction is detrimental. The basis of this classification is that the changes the material may undergo vary according to the specific environment (Figure 1). The behavior and properties, and especially the hydration process, of a hydraulic cement depends on its chemistry.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
