1. Zinc Oxide Eugenol - A Multidisciplinary Approach in Dentistry

Abstract

Zinc Oxide Eugenol (ZOE) is a material created by the combination of Zinc Oxide and Eugenol contained in oil of cloves. Acid-base reaction takes place within the mixture to form Zinc Eugenolate Chelate. The reaction is catalyzed by water and is accelerated by the presence of metal salts. ZOE can be used as a filling cement material in dentistry. Tissue tolerance to Zinc Oxide Eugenol is better as compared to other dental materials. The cement relieve pain due to reversible pulpitis because it is bacteriostatic, obtundent as well as antiseptic nature, they are well accepted by patients. The cements are good insulators and possess better sealing properties than zinc phosphate cements. Because of their poor mechanical properties, the conventional zinc oxide-eugenol cements are mainly used as temporary fixing cements. They are also used as gingival dressings, root canal sealers and also as impression materials