Australian Dental Council (ADC) Practice Test

Zinc oxide impression material is known for its utility in dental applications, particularly in making precise impressions. However, one of the potential concerns associated with this material is that it may cause irritation to the mucosa. This irritation can occur due to the chemical properties of zinc oxide, which, while generally considered safe, may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive mucous membranes or allergies. The irritation can present as discomfort or inflammation in the tissues that come into contact with the material during the impression-taking process.

In contrast, other characteristics of zinc oxide impression material include that it is not thermoplastic; it remains stable at room temperature until mixed with other components to create a workable paste. Additionally, zinc oxide is typically hydrophobic, meaning that it does not absorb water well, which is the opposite of being hydrophilic. Lastly, while allergic reactions can occur with many dental materials, such reactions are not commonly associated with zinc oxide, making the concern for mucosal irritation significantly more relevant in clinical practice.