ZIN OXIDE EUGENOL CEMENT

Zinc Oxide Eugenol (ZOE) cement is a dental cement prepared by mixing zinc oxide powder with eugenol liquid, which is obtained from clove oil. It is one of the oldest and most widely used dental cements because of its sedative, antibacterial, and sealing properties.

ZOE cement has a soothing effect on the dental pulp, making it especially useful in deep cavities and temporary restorations. It provides a good seal against bacterial leakage and is easy to manipulate, making it suitable for temporary cementation of crowns and bridges, cavity liners, bases, root canal sealers, and periodontal dressings.

Although ZOE cement is biocompatible and comfortable for patients, it has low mechanical strength and is not recommended for permanent restorations or under resin-based composite restorations, as eugenol inhibits the polymerization of resin materials.