Physical properties of ZnO base and resin cements

Some physical properties of zinc phosphate, zinc polycarboxylate, and a resin cement of thick consistency suitable for cementation of orthodontic bands were evaluated. A new technique for evaluating the setting time is described. The setting times for resin and zinc polycarboxylate cements were about the same but less than that for zinc phosphate. The properties of percent solubility and compressive strength were significantly superior for resin cement.