The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of temperature change on film thickness of both types of cements.

Totally, 60 samples were prepared with 10 in each subgroup, thus comprising 30 in each group. Materials tested were glass ionomer cement (GIC) type I and zinc phosphate type I. Samples were manipulated with manufacturer's instructions and tested according to American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines.

The mean values of film thickness were recorded for both groups I and II. In intragroup comparison of group 1, subgroup III (26.560 ± 0.489 µm) was found to have the highest film thickness followed by subgroup II (24.182 ± 0.576 µm) and the lowest in subgroup I (20.209 ± 0.493 µm). In intragroup comparison of group II, the film thickness recorded in subgroup III (25.215 ± 0.661 µm) was the highest followed by subgroup II (21.471 ± 0.771 µm) and the least in subgroup I (17.951 ± 0.654 µm; p < 0.01). In intergroup comparison of groups I and II, group II (21.545 ± 0.841) was found to have less film thickness than group I (23.650 ± 0.271). The results were found to be statistically significant (p < 0.01).

Both zinc phosphate and GICs can be used satisfactorily for luting purpose. The temperature fluctuations have a direct influence on the film thickness. Zinc phosphate has less film thickness than GIC.

Zinc phosphate should be preferred over GIC in clinical practice, and more stress should be given in mechanical preparation of crowns for better retentive quality of prosthesis.

Kumar MP, Priyadarshini R, Kumar YM, Priya KS, Chunchuvyshnavi, Yerrapragada H. Effect of Temperature on Film Thickness of Two Types of Commonly used Luting Cements. J Contemp Dent Pract 2017;18(12):1159-1163.