The paper discusses strength, retention, film thickness, working time, solubility, early sensitivity to water, biocompatibility and handling properties of zinc phosphate, polycarboxylate and glass ionomer cements. Zinc phosphate cement has acceptable strength, working time and biological properties. It is easy to handle, even when mixing large quantities. Polycarboxylate cement has less strength, different flow properties and a shorter working time, but excellent biocompatibility. The polycarboxylate cement is an alternative where pulp reactions are expected to occur and the load on the restoration during mastication is limited. Glass ionomer cement has the highest strength and retentive properties and a low solubility. It is difficult to spatulate, the working time is short, and contact with water during setting is critical for the quality of the surface layer of the material. The biological properties of glass ionomer cements are similar to those of zinc phosphate cements. It is an alternative to zinc phosphate cement where normal retention is impossible to obtain.