DANB General Chairside Practice Test

What type of dental cement and consistency should be used for a fractured amalgam restoration requiring a temporary solution?

1. Permanent cement, low viscosity

2. Temporary cement, primary consistency

3. Temporary cement, secondary consistency

4. Composite resin, paste consistency

The correct answer is: Temporary cement, secondary consistency

For a fractured amalgam restoration that requires a temporary solution, the appropriate choice is to use temporary cement with secondary consistency. Temporary cement is designed for situations where a short-term solution is needed, and it allows for easy removal when a more permanent restoration is placed later. Secondary consistency, which refers to a thicker, dough-like texture, is important in this context because it offers adequate viscosity to fill in the fractured area without flowing excessively, thus providing a better seal and support until a permanent restoration can be completed. This consistency helps ensure that the temporary material stays in place and maintains the integrity of the tooth until further treatment. Using a permanent cement would not be appropriate in this scenario, as it is intended for long-term use and could complicate future procedures by making the temporary restoration difficult to remove. While both primary and secondary consistencies of temporary cement are suitable, the secondary consistency is specifically advantageous for its stability and effectiveness in filling gaps. Composite resin does not qualify since it is not classified as a temporary cement and serves different purposes in restorative dentistry.