Which cement is most commonly used with provisional crowns?

The most commonly used cement with provisional crowns is temporary cement. This type of cement is specifically designed for short-term use, which is ideal for securing provisional crowns that are meant to be replaced later with a permanent restoration. Temporary cements are formulated to allow easy removal of the crown without damaging the underlying tooth or the crown itself.

The properties of temporary cement—such as their lower strength compared to permanent cement and their ability to maintain some flexibility—make them suitable for provisional applications. They often have a weaker bond, ensuring that when the permanent crown is ready, the provisional can be removed without difficulty.

In contrast, permanent cement is designed for long-term adhesion and is not suitable for restorations that are meant to be temporary. Glass ionomer and resin cements, while useful for various restorative procedures, often provide a stronger bond than needed for provisional crowns, which could complicate the removal process when transitioning to the final restoration.