Zinc oxide and eugenol cement has many uses in dentistry. Which one of the following situations is one where this material would not be used?

Zinc oxide and eugenol cement possesses a range of properties that make it suitable for various dental applications, such as its sedative effect on the dental pulpal tissue, its ability to seal in moisture, and its effectiveness in providing thermal and chemical insulation.

When it comes to its use as a lining under composite restorations, zinc oxide and eugenol cement is not ideal. This is primarily because eugenol can inhibit the polymerization of some types of composite materials due to its oil content, which compromises the bond strength. A material that is used as a lining beneath composite should ideally facilitate bonding and should not interfere with the curing process of the composite resin.

In contrast, zinc oxide and eugenol is often utilized in applications such as impression pastes, periodontal dressings, and root filling materials, where its properties serve effectively to fulfill the requirements of those procedures. For example, its soothing effect is beneficial in managing pain in periodontal applications, while its sealing capabilities can be advantageous in root canal treatments.