In terms of dental materials, what is a characteristic of adhesive resin cements?

Adhesive resin cements are known for their strong bonding capabilities, which is a critical characteristic when it comes to dental materials. The ability to create a strong bond with both the tooth structure and the restoration itself makes these cements highly retentive. This retention is essential for the longevity and stability of dental restorations, ensuring they remain securely in place under the masticatory forces and oral conditions.

The strength of adhesive resin cements arises from several factors, including their chemical composition, which allows them to bond to dental tissues through both micromechanical retention and chemical interactions. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for bonding indirect restorations, such as crowns and bridges, where stability is crucial.

While other options might describe properties of different types of dental cements, such as moisture stability or setting time, it is the superior retention provided by adhesive resin cements that sets them apart, making them the most effective choice in scenarios where strong adhesion is required.