Restorative Glass Ionomer Cements

The advent of glass-ionomer cement in dentistry has expanded its clinical applications, offering efficient and improved outcomes. These tooth-coloured restorations exhibit low technique sensitivity, chemically bonding to both sound and caries-affected tooth structures. Glass-ionomer cements release fluoride, protecting against recurrent caries. These materials play a significant role in modern restorative dentistry, owing to their adhesive, tooth-coloured, and fluoride-releasing properties. With applications in restorative, lining, luting, and sealing procedures, they stand out for their versatility, unmatched by other restorative materials. 

How to use Restorative Glass Ionomer Cement:

To prevent early failure of glass ionomer cement during the restorative process, several precautions are crucial:

• Clean and dry the prepared cavity thoroughly. Prior treatment with weak acid solutions, such as polyacrylic acid (10 to 25%), enhances the adhesive characteristics by improving surface energy and wetting ability.
• Maintain the proper powder-liquid ratio to ensure the ideal consistency of the glass ionomer cement.
• Shake the powder vial before use, especially for anhydrous cement, to prevent excessive mixing of glass particles or lyophilized acid with the liquid.
• Position the liquid bottle vertically at a distance from the glass plate to allow a free drop output during dispensing.
• Adhere to the manufacturer's instructions regarding the mixing time for optimal consistency and performance.
• Ensure that the material to be inserted exhibits a wet brightness, indicating the right moisture level for effective application.
• Exercise caution during material insertion to avoid the formation of bubbles inside the restoration. The use of a Centrix syringe can be effective in preventing bubbles.
• Take precautions to prevent wet contamination during the restoration process.
• Press the material with a matrix for a specified duration, typically 1 minute, to ensure proper adaptation and placement within the prepared cavity.
• During the initial removal of excess material, use a scalpel blade from the restoration towards the tooth structure.
• The finishing procedure should be deferred to the next appointment for thorough completion.
• Immediately apply superficial protection after the restoration. Glass ionomer cements (GICs) are sensitive to water gain and loss. Varnishes, fluid resins, or colourless nail polish can be used to shield these cements.
• Finishing and polishing procedures should use lubricated instruments to prevent overheating of the restoration, maintaining the moisture of the restorative material.

Additional care considerations for satisfactory results include:

• Keep flasks tightly closed to prevent water gain or loss since GICs are water sensitive. The liquid should not be...