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Glass-ionomer cements

Background

In minimal intervention (MI) dentistry, caries is seen as a multifactorial lifestyle-associated condition caused by an unhealthy oral biofilm and unbalanced oral environment. Treatment is guided by individual risk assessment, detection and management of noncavitated lesions, effective preventive care, and minimally invasive restoration. Glass-ionomer cement (GIC) is highly versatile and provides an excellent material for use in MI dentistry.

Facts About GIC

The water-based cements of GIC are formed by an acid-base reaction between a calcium-based fluoroaluminosilicate glass powder and a polyalkenoic acid liquid. The seal created is highly tolerant of technique and lasts a long time even in challenging clinical situations. GICs are considered bioactive because of their exchange of ions with tooth structures, including fluoride.

The setting of GICs includes several complex chemical reactions in two distinct stages. After mixing, cross-linking of the

GIC Restorations and Performance

Restorations using the most current formulation of GIC can be placed and finished in a single visit and have achieved an esthetic translucency that is highly desirable. The two main groups of GICs are conventional and resin-modified. They both offer a long-lasting seal.

GICs are not appropriate for use in areas exposed to excessive and repeated occlusal loads and where a highly esthetic result is needed. High-viscosity GICs have both good mechanical strength and good wear resistance.

Discussion

GIC is both a preventive and a restorative material and is highly useful in minimally invasive dental approaches. Its combination of chemical adhesion and high biocompatibility contributes to the success of preventive efforts directed against caries and the clinical effectiveness of treatments for pits and fissures, deep caries, and root caries.