Abstract Calcium silicate cements were identified as excellent materials for dentistry, particularly for dental procedures contacting the dental pulp or root system. Both calcium silicate and calcium aluminate cements cause the biomineralization (precipitation of hydroxyapatite [HA] phenomena and shield dental tissues from the underlying cement (a foreign body material). The cements also elute ions to stimulate cytokines that contribute to the healing of the dental pulp or in the tissue surrounding the root of a tooth. The cements serve as a foundation for other dental restorative materials. This paper reviews the cement phases, properties, in vivo reactions, and clinical benefits from the use of calcium silicate and calcium aluminate ceramic cements.