What should cement feel like when it is properly set?

When cement is properly set, it should exhibit a hard texture, indicating that it has undergone the necessary chemical reactions to achieve its optimal strength. However, it being hard yet allowing for a slight indent upon testing demonstrates that the material is not overly brittle; instead, it has reached a stage where it is firm enough to retain its shape and function effectively in a dental procedure.

A cement that is too soft and pliable will not have the requisite strength to hold dental restorations in place, potentially leading to failure in their effectiveness. Similarly, if cement is brittle and chippy, it suggests that it has either set improperly or been mixed incorrectly, which can also jeopardize its performance in holding dental structures securely. Therefore, ideal cement should feel hard but still provide a slight indentation when pressure is applied. This balance is crucial in dental applications to ensure durability while maintaining some level of adaptability to the forces applied during normal use.