Radiopacity of resin-based inlay luting cements

The radiopacity of a group of seven resin-based inlay luting cements in addition to two porcelain veneer cements was determined. Four inlay cements (Indirect Porcelain System Dentist Bonding Kit, Dicor MGC, Duo, and Twinlook) were found to have radiopacity values significantly greater than the radiopacity of enamel. Two other inlay cements (Dual and Porcelite Dual Cure) were found to have radiopacity values not significantly different from that of enamel, while All-Bond Crown and Bridge cement had a radiopacity value significantly lower than the radiopacity of dentin. For the two porcelain veneer cements examined, one material (Mirage Bond) had a radiopacity value significantly greater than that of enamel, while the other (G-Cera Porcelain Veneer Bonding System) had a radiopacity value significantly lower than that of dentin. It was concluded that only the materials that have radiopacity values greater than or equivalent to the radiopacity of enamel are suitable for use as inlay cements. For porcelain veneers, a relatively high radiopacity value of the cement is advantageous.