Description
Multilink Automix is a dual-cured, multipurpose resin-based dental cement with a self-curing and self-etching primer. Suggested applications for Multilink Automix include cementation of indirect restorations made of metal, metal-ceramic, all-ceramic (zirconia and aluminum oxide), and fiber-reinforced composite. The use of a metal primer is recommended as a coupling agent to achieve a stronger bond to sand-blasted precious and non-precious alloys. Multilink Automix is available in three shades with different degrees of translucency: transparent (high translucency), yellow (high translucency), and opaque (low translucency). The System Pack includes a 9-g Multilink Automix syringe, Multilink Primer A & B, Metal Primer, 15 mixing tips, and accessories. Fourteen editors evaluated Multilink Automix during a four-week period, cementing over 110 restorations. This product received a 97% rating.
Editors’ Observations
Manufacturer’s Instructions
Consultants found the instructions very clear and concise. An illustrated guide allows quick chairside reference of step-by-step procedures with Multilink Automix.
Delivery System/Viscosity
Many of the consultants commented on the convenience of the auto-mix syringe and the consistent mix with each use. The mixing tip allows for controlled flow of the cement into the restoration. The mixing tip is a little too wide to extrude cement directly into some post spaces; however, the cement easily coats all surfaces of the restoration and allows for easy seating.
Working Time/Setting Time
One hundred percent of consultants found there was adequate working time. Use of the primer accelerates the setting of Multilink Automix, which affects placing cement directly into a canal or inlay preparation. Consultants commented favorably on the dual-cured capability.
Ease of Excess Removal
All of the consultants found that excess cement was easy to remove. A 1-2 second “flash” cure at the margins also allows fast and easy clean-up.
Post-operative Sensitivity/Retention
None of the 110 restorations cemented with Multilink Automix debonded during the four-month evaluation period. There were no reports of post-operative sensitivity.
Clinical Tips
- Store the auto-mix syringe with the previously-used tip left in place to reduce cross-contamination between the base and catalyst.
Editors’ Note: The original evaluation was published in THE DENTAL ADVISOR, Vol. 22, No. 8, October 2002. A silane, Monobond-S (5-g bottle), is now included in the kit.
