Final answer:
IRM (Intermediate Restorative Material) is the material typically set out in preparation for a temporary dental restoration. Amalgam, while used for permanent restorations due to its durability and low cost, contains mercury, making it less suitable for temporary purposes.
Step-by-step explanation:
When preparing for the placement of a temporary restoration, dentists may choose among different materials based on the clinical situation, the patient's needs, and the durability required from the temporary material. The correct choice in the listed options for a temporary restoration material would be D) IRM (Intermediate Restorative Material), which is a zinc oxide-eugenol compound. This material is often used for its ease of placement and adequate seal until a more definitive restoration can be done.
While amalgam is used for permanent restorations, its content of mercury makes it less ideal as a temporary material, and its placement requires specific preparation and containment due to mercury-related health concerns. Composite materials and GIC (Glass Ionomer Cement) can also be used for permanent restorations and are known for their aesthetics but are less commonly chosen for temporary restorations compared to IRM.