An in vitro study of the properties of GICs with bioactive biomaterial modification

Abstract

The fluoride release and chemical adherence to tooth structure remain the most desirable features of glass ionomer restorative cements (GICs). Although the physical properties for multi-surface restorations are well-defined, even with the introduction of newer GICs not all demands have been met. Yet, increased use of GICs will only be possible if clinicians change their perceptions of the low survival rate of GICs. The lower clinical success rate of GICs is partly due to the marginal integrity and wear over time, which has often been recorded in the literature as restoration failure. The current, well-established restorative options for the primary dentition are Resin Modified Glass Ionomers (RMGICs) and Compomer resins. There is a paradigm shift towards materials that are more biologically favourable. Areas of research for dental materials include antibacterial properties in conjunction with ion release to maintain healthy restored teeth. If a GIC can provide adequate physical properties with the inclusion of the aforementioned features, GICs might become a more viable permanent restorative solution.