Effects of temporary cementation on permanent cement retention to composite resin cores

This in vitro study compared the effects on retention of base metal cylindrical retainers placed on composite resin cores when pretreated with eugenol and noneugenol temporary cements. Sixty composite cores and base metal cylindrical retainers were tested. The cores were pretreated with eugenol and noneugenol temporary cements before eventual cementation with resin and zinc phosphate cements. Cemented core retention was measured by application of a compressive force to the cores in an Instron machine. Differences were found between the two permanent cements. Pretreatment with eugenol cement reduced retainer retention with resin cement, but had no effect with zinc phosphate cement. Pretreatment with noneugenol cement did not reduce retainer retention.