Which of the following is a primary concern when using dental cements?

The primary concern when using dental cements revolves around the preparation of the tooth surface. Proper preparation of the tooth surface is essential as it directly affects the bond strength of the cement and the longevity of the restoration. A clean and adequately conditioned tooth surface ensures that the cement can effectively adhere to both the tooth structure and the restorative material. Without proper preparation, contamination or residual materials can hinder the adhesion process, potentially leading to failure of the restoration.

In comparison, while the volume of the mix, the time allowed for setting, and the adhesive properties are important factors in the use of dental cements, they are secondary to the fundamental need for a properly prepared tooth surface. Focusing on surface preparation helps in achieving optimal adhesion and function of the cement in dental applications.