Ace the HESI Chairside Challenge 2026 – Elevate Your Dental Assisting Skills!

The correct answer is Type I ZOE (Zinc Oxide Eugenol). This is a specific formulation of temporary dental cement that consists of two distinct pastes that are mixed together prior to application. One paste contains the zinc oxide powder, while the other contains the eugenol liquid, which serves as the liquid component. When these two components are combined, they create a thick paste that has the necessary properties for temporary cementation, such as adequate adhesion and protection for the pulp during the interim period before a permanent restoration is placed.

In contrast, glass ionomer and calcium hydroxide are not classified as two-paste systems. Glass ionomer is typically available as a powder and liquid that can be mixed to form a paste, but it does not come in two distinct pastes. Calcium hydroxide is used primarily for pulp capping and does not function as a temporary cement in the same way. Additionally, resin composites are used for final restorations rather than temporary cementation and do not fit the criteria of a two-paste system.