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The object-relational database model serves as a bridge between the traditional relational database systems and object-oriented databases. It combines the robustness and structured organization of relational databases, such as tables and SQL (Structured Query Language) for data manipulation, with the flexibility of object-oriented programming principles.

This integration allows users to define complex data types (objects) and encapsulate both data and behavior within these objects. As a result, developers can store complex data in a more natural way, enabling sophisticated data representations and relationships that mimic real-world entities and their interactions. For instance, it allows for the creation of custom data types and the ability to store objects directly, facilitating a more comprehensive approach to data handling.

In contrast, the other database models do not provide this blend of features. Hierarchical databases organize data in a tree-like structure, which restricts the relationships to a parent-child model. Network databases allow for more complex relationships than hierarchical but still lack the object-oriented features. Flat file databases, on the other hand, store data in a single file without any structured relationships, making them less versatile and powerful than object-relational databases.