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What is the duration of effectiveness for Intermediate Restorative Material (IRM)?

  1. Up to 6 months

  2. Up to 1 year

  3. Up to 2 years

  4. Temporary only, less than a month

The correct answer is: Up to 1 year

Intermediate Restorative Material (IRM) is designed for temporary restorations and commonly serves as a palliative material in certain dental situations. It is notable for its durability compared to other temporary materials. The effectiveness of IRM generally lasts for up to one year, making it suitable for use in situations where a definitive restoration might be postponed. This longevity is due to IRM’s composition, which includes zinc oxide and eugenol, providing properties that help resist wear and leakage during the interim period. When patients require a temporary solution while awaiting a more permanent restoration, IRM’s lifespan of up to one year allows for flexibility in treatment planning. This differentiates it from materials that are truly short-term, which are often effective for less than a month or have very limited durability.