Zinc oxide phosphate cement is mixed using liquid (phosphoric acid) and powder (mainly zinc oxide) and sets within two to three minutes. Phosphate cements are used for underfillings and poured fillings and also as anchoring cement for inlays and crowns. If in close proximity to the pulpa, the acidic effect can cause a light pulpal irritation. However, this disappears again after cement ligature.

Carboxylate cements are mixed from liquid (polyacrylic acid) and powder (main component zinc oxide) and are excellently compatible with the pulpa. Their abrasion stability is low. They are also used for poured fillings and underfillings and as anchoring cements.

Zinc oxide eugenol cement is mixed from zinc oxide powder and eugenol (a component of cloves oil) and was used frequently in the past. According to modern knowledge of the biological processes in the pulpa, this cement has become less significant.

Zinc sulphate cements are mixed from powder and liquid and have hardly any side-effects. However, in comparison they can only handle low burdens.

The ideal temporary prosthesis consists of a ready-to-use preparation which hardens under the influence of mouth wetness. They are taken from the tube, applied to the cavity and adapted.

Light hardening plastic prostheses are especially suitable for interim provision during the course of inlay therapy. The great advantage of these materials is that they can be removed again in one piece. If it is not necessary to clean residual cement from the cavity, trial fitting of the cast inlay can take place immediately.

The gutta-percha occlusion is also used. It is heated and then shaped plastically. It is inserted into the cavity in this softened condition and shaped.