Effect of fluoride varnish on the retentive strength of provisional crowns luted with various temporary cements.

The retention of temporary crowns was studied with the use of a fluoride varnish (Duraphat) combined with various temporary cements. The mixture of Duraphat varnish and cement improved retention, with the exception of Opotow cement. Applying Duraphat varnish to the tooth surface before cementation enhanced the retentive strength of Tempbond, weakened the retention of Freegenol, but had no effect on Opotow cement. A "transfer effect" was observed, inasmuch as the Duraphat varnish encouraged adherence of the cement to the tooth structure rather than to the temporary crown.