Which of the following is a common property of dental bases?

Dental bases are materials used to provide thermal insulation and mechanical protection for the pulp of a tooth. They serve as a barrier between the restorative material and the tooth structure, helping to shield the pulp from temperature changes, chemicals, and bacterial infiltration. By insulating the pulp, dental bases ensure that the vitality of the tooth is preserved during and after restorative procedures, reducing the likelihood of post-operative sensitivity or further damage.

The insulating property is crucial, especially when restorative materials that conduct temperature changes, such as amalgam or composites, are used. This helps maintain pulpal health and comfort for the patient, which is why this characteristic is fundamental to the function of dental bases.