Name two common temporary restorative materials.

• A. Zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) cement and IRM (reinforced ZOE) or temporary composite resins.
• B. Glass ionomer cement and dentin bonding agent.
• C. Portland cement and gutta-percha.
• D. Composite resin and bonding agent.

Answer: (A)

Temporary restorations protect the tooth between visits and need to be easy to place and remove while sealing the prep. Zinc oxide eugenol cement provides a soothing effect to the pulp and is simple to place, making it a common choice for temporaries. Reinforced zinc oxide eugenol (IRM) strengthens that base, offering better fracture resistance and a more durable seal for short-term use. Some clinicians also use temporary composite resins as an alternative, but the classic combination most exams expect is ZOE-based cement and IRM.

Other options aren’t typical two-material temporary restoratives: dentin bonding agents aren’t restoratives by themselves, and while glass ionomer can be used for temporary fillings in some cases, it’s not paired here with a matching temporary material in the same sense; Portland cement and gutta-percha are not used as temporary restoratives in typical practice.