In a thick mix, zinc polycarboxylate is commonly used as what?

Zinc polycarboxylate is commonly used as a cavity base due to its properties that provide thermal and chemical protection to the dental pulp. This material establishes a bond with tooth structure and can act as a barrier against irritants, making it an effective choice when protecting the pulp from thermal shock or harmful substances from restorative materials. Its ability to adhere to the dentin also helps in reducing microleakage at the margins of restorations, contributing to the longevity of the dental work.

In the context of dental procedures, while it can be utilized for other purposes like luting cement in some cases, its specific role as a cavity base highlights its protective qualities and suitability for underlying restorative materials. This is particularly important in situations where the remaining tooth structure is compromised or when a more protective layer is necessary before the final restoration is applied.