What does “Bonding and luting of dental restorations” mean?
Bonding and luting are processes for securing restorations such as crowns or inlays to teeth. Dental cements used for fixation include resin-based and other types, and preparation of the restoration and tooth surfaces also varies with the materials.
The restoration and tooth are considered together
The height and taper of the prepared tooth, together with the cement, contribute to crown retention. When tooth shape alone provides insufficient retention, adhesive bonding may offer additional retention. The restoration material and the ability to control moisture must also be considered.
Surface preparation varies
Resin-based cements generally involve applying a primer to the tooth surface to aid bonding, while self-adhesive types are designed for use without a separate primer. The inside of the restoration also needs preparation appropriate to its material. Saliva contamination of bonding surfaces can reduce bond strength, so moisture is controlled.
Fit is checked before fixation
The completed restoration is assessed for fit before it is secured. A poorly fitting restoration cannot necessarily be corrected with a stronger adhesive. If it later comes off, both the tooth and restoration must be reassessed, as well as the cement, before deciding whether it can be fixed again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does luting mean the restoration is only wedged in, without any cement holding it?
No. Luting also uses a dental material to secure the restoration. Retention depends on the cement and the conditions of the tooth and restoration, so the term alone does not indicate strength.
Can a stronger adhesive prevent every restoration from coming off?
No. Fit and the condition of the supporting tooth also matter. Repeated dislodgement calls for assessment of the cause before deciding on refixation or a change to the restoration.
Questions about fixing a restoration in place
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Which material and method will secure this restoration?
Explanation and evidenceAsk why the method suits the restoration material and the condition of the tooth.
National Dental Practice-Based Research Network · Study of cement selection for single-unit crowns - A choice suited to your condition
Has the fit been checked before fixation?
Explanation and evidenceThe fit on the tooth and any areas needing modification are assessed before deciding on final fixation.
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust · Bridges
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- National Dental Practice-Based Research Network · Study of cement selection for single-unit crownspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (opens in a new tab)
- Academy of Prosthodontics · The Glossary of Prosthodontic Terms, ninth editionacademyofprosthodontics.org (opens in a new tab)
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust · Bridgesleedsth.nhs.uk (opens in a new tab)
