Temporary cement is a staple in any modern dental practice, essential for placing provisional crowns and bridges while a permanent restoration is made. But not all types of temporary dental cement are created equal. What was used a few decades ago is no longer standard today.
We’ll compare eugenol vs non-eugenol temporary cement below to help you understand the differences between these two formulations, and ultimately, which is right for your practice.
While eugenol cement has minor analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s notorious for inhibiting resin-based bonding systems. In contrast, non-eugenol cement is more compatible, less susceptible to staining, and won’t interfere with adhesives. It’s also easier to handle and remove.
That’s why here at My DDS Supply we provide non-eugenol temporary dental cement. Not only is it better from the dental professional’s perspective, but it’s safer for universal use in your practice because you won’t have to worry about patients with eugenol sensitivities.
Learn more about the differences between eugenol vs non-eugenol cement below, or, stock up on the essentials that keep your practice running smoothly at My DDS Supply today.
| Feature | Eugenol-Based Cement | Non-Eugenol Cement |
|---|---|---|
| Bond Compatibility | Can inhibit resin-based bonding agents | Fully compatible with resin, composite, and adhesive systems |
| Pulpal Effect | Soothing, sedative effect; good for sensitive cases | Biocompatible but no sedative properties |
| Cleanup | May leave residue; requires thorough cleaning | Leaves minimal residue; easy cleanup |
| Patient Experience | Distinct clove taste and odor. Some patients may have eugenol sensitivities | Neutral taste and odor, more comfortable from patient POV |
| Best Used For | Metal restorations, non-resin permanent cementation, cases with pulpal inflammation | Bonded ceramic/composite restorations, universal use, resin workflows |
What is Eugenol, and Why is it in Dental Cement?
Eugenol is naturally derived from clove oil and has been used in dentistry for well over a century, particularly in temporary cement.
The appeal is its biological properties, as it has a mild anesthetic effect and even shows anti-inflammatory and antibacterial behavior. It has long been used in cases where the pulp is irritated or where a sedative effect would be beneficial in the interim between procedures.
These types of cements are typically used to seat temporary crowns, bridges, or inlays/onlays. They seal reliably, they’re easy to mix and handle, and they’re fairly inexpensive.
Clinicians often choose eugenol formulations when they’re placing a provisional that will eventually be replaced by a metal or non-resin final restoration. Eugenol’s soothing nature can help ease postoperative sensitivity or discomfort following aggressive tooth preparation.
But, there’s a reason you’re seeing eugenol phased out in favor of its non-eugenol counterpart. It inhibits the polymerization of resin-based materials. In other words, it could interfere with bond strength and long-term adhesion if you plan to use a resin-modified glass ionomer or composite-based cement for the final restoration.
In these cases, it might make more sense to go with a non-eugenol temporary dental cement.
The Appeal of Non-Eugenol Temporary Dental Cement
Non-eugenol temporary cements were developed out of a need for something that worked better with resin-based bonding systems.
These formulations typically replace eugenol with organic acids or carboxylated compounds that provide similar handling and sealing benefits but without the drawbacks in bonding. This is the main appeal: universal compatibility.
Non-eugenol cement can be safely used with virtually any type of final restoration - ceramic, composite, resin-based, or metal - without compromising adhesive performance. This flexibility makes it useful for temporaries that precede bonded restorations, such as veneers, all-ceramic crowns, and inlays/onlays.
These types of cements also offer better color stability and leave behind less residue, so cleanup is faster and there’s less risk of contamination at the time of permanent cementation. They’re usually odorless and tasteless, which some patients prefer over the clove-like profile of eugenol-based alternatives.
However, you’re missing one thing with this style: you don’t get the same pulpal sedative effect you would with a eugenol cement. This can be a concern in cases of deep preparation or exposed dentin where post-op sensitivity is likely.
Nevertheless, non-eugenol is becoming the standard for resin-based final workflows. But does that mean you need both eugenol vs non-eugenol temporary cement, or should you just stock one or the other?
Eugenol vs Non-Eugenol Temporary Cement: Which Does Your Practice Need?
Temporary cements may only be used for an interim period, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook the nuances of different formulations. The cement you use can make or break the patient’s comfort in the meantime, along with the success of the final restoration.
Choosing between eugenol and non-eugenol formulations depends on more than tradition or convenience - it’s a matter of compatibility, comfort, and workflow efficiency. Here’s what you need to know about eugenol vs non-eugenol temporary cement.
Compatibility With Final Restorations
This is where the difference becomes non-negotiable. Eugenol-based cements are notorious for inhibiting resin-based material polymerization. Any crown or bridge seated with a resin-modified or adhesive cement is at risk for compromised bond strength if eugenol residue is present.
Non-eugenol cement avoids this issue entirely. It’s safe to use before bonded restorations like veneers, zirconia crowns, lithium disilicate, and composite inlays/onlays. It’s the obvious choice if your practice routinely works with adhesive systems, as most do today.
Pulpal Response and Sensitivity Management
Patient comfort is an important consideration as well, as you want to do anything in your power to prevent irritation or pain. This is where eugenol cement has an edge over its non-eugenol counterpart.
Its natural sedative properties make it ideal for deep preps, sensitive teeth, or situations where the pulp may need a break between aggressive procedures.
It’s why some clinicians still keep eugenol in rotation just in case they encounter irritated pulpal tissue or have a patient reporting post-op discomfort. The problem is, some patients actually have an eugenol sensitivity, and the material could cause more harm than good in these cases.
Non-eugenol cements may not have any analgesic properties, but they’re more biocompatible.
These are the defaults for most cases where pulp health isn’t a primary concern.
Ease of Removal and Cleanup
Eugenol cements tend to leave a slight oily residue behind, and that needs to be cleaned both mechanically and chemically prior to bonding. Failing to do so could compromise final adhesion and color stability, especially with translucent materials.
On the other hand, non-eugenol cements are easier to clean since they naturally produce less residue and have a drier finish. This streamlines the transition from temporary to permanent, which can be a huge benefit for busy practices.
The less time spent on cleanup, the more time you have to see more patients. It can also reduce risk and ensure more favorable outcomes. We have a more detailed guide on how to remove temporary dental cement if you’re interested.
Setting Time and Handling Properties
Both materials are easy to work with, but non-eugenol cements offer more consistency across a range of set times and delivery systems.
From automix syringes to traditional hand-mix jars, modern non-eugenol formulas provide reliable working time and quick cleanup, whether you’re doing single units or multiple provisionals.
That’s not say eugenol doesn’t mix easily, but the set time may vary slightly depending on ambient temperature and humidity. This introduces unnecessary variables into your workflow, something you probably don’t want to bother with in high-turnover environments.
Odor, Taste, and Patient Comfort
Patients rarely love the strong clove-like smell and taste of eugenol. It’s noticeable the moment the cement is mixed and can linger after placement.
Of course, clinical outcomes are the main priority in your practice - but if there’s a way to improve the patient’s experience while getting the end result you want, even better.
That’s why non-eugenol formulations have an edge here. They’re typically odorless and taste-neutral, which can make a huge difference in the patient’s lifestyle if the provisional is going to stay in place for a few weeks.
Use Cases by Procedure Type
Ultimately choosing between eugenol vs non-eugenol temporary cement comes down to the specific procedure at hand, as each formulation has its pros and cons. Here’s a chart showing you when you’d want to use which:
| Use Eugenol-Based Cement When: | Use Non-Eugenol Cement When: |
|---|---|
| You’re placing a temporary under a metal or non-adhesive final restoration | You’re working with bonded ceramics, composites, or resin-based adhesives |
| The pulp is inflamed and the patient reports thermal sensitivity | You want faster cleanup and a cleaner bonding surface |
| You plan to use zinc phosphate or other non-resin cements permanently | You need a universal temporary cement that won’t interfere with future steps |
But if we had to say which one is more commonplace in modern dentistry, it would be non-eugenol. It’s the more predictable, patient-friendly, and workflow-compatible option. That’s why we stock it for you here at My DDS Supply.
Stock Your Practice With the Best Temporary Dental Cement at My DDS Supply
My DDS Supply makes it easy for dental professionals to get the supplies they need - fast, affordable, and without the hassle. Whether you’re running a solo office or managing multiple chairs, our platform simplifies ordering so you get products you trust at prices that make sense.
Our catalog is carefully curated to include top-performing materials, backed by responsive customer service and fast shipping that keeps your operatory stocked and your schedule on track.
The Automix Non-Eugenol Temporary Cement we offer is manufactured by PlastCare USA, so you can rest assured you’re getting the consistent quality you expect in your workflow.
This convenient automix syringe supports quick, precise application with no manual mixing. The non-eugenol formula is ideal for patients with sensitivities and won’t interfere with resin-based permanent restorations.
It provides strong, dependable retention while still allowing for easy cleanup and removal - perfect for provisional crowns, bridges, and other temporary restorations.
With 10mL of material, it’s built to last through multiple applications without waste. And like everything we carry, it’s made by a manufacturer dentists trust. You can also stock up on the temporary crown and bridge material and dental mixing tips you need while you’re here!
Transform your dental supply sourcing process for the better today. Get world-class support and top-tier products to bring out the best patient results possible. Experience the My DDS Supply difference now!
Final Thoughts on Eugenol vs Non-Eugenol Cement
We hope this eugenol vs non-eugenol temporary cement guide has cleared things up for you. Both have their place, but the shift toward bonded, esthetic, and resin-based workflows makes non-eugenol the smarter, more versatile choice for most modern practices.
Our blog has additional resources on topics like how strong is dental cement or how long does temporary dental cement last. Otherwise, the only thing left to do today is set yourself up for smooth success and favorable patient outcomes with the best temporary dental cement.
No residue, no setbacks - get clean, reliable temps everytime with the non-eugenol formulations we have in store for you at My DDS Supply. Your path to placing better provisions starts here!