Trends in indirect dentistry: 3. Luting materials

Luting materials play a central role in indirect dentistry. Active materials which bond to tooth and restoration may aid retention of restorations, while passive materials merely fill the gap between crown and tooth. The properties of currently available luting materials are discussed, with resin-modified glass ionomer and resin materials being found to exhibit optimum properties. However, resin luting materials have been technique sensitive to use, but the advent of self-adhesive resin luting materials has overcome most of the technique problems during placement of restorations. Resin materials are indicated for luting all-ceramic restorations.

Correct choice of a luting material with optimum physical properties is central to success in indirect dentistry.