QUIZ 1: Glass Ionomers

What are the properties of glass ionomers?

extremely versatile material with chemical properties that allow it be useful in restoring teeth, lining restorations, and permanent cement

made up of powdered silicate glass and paired with polyacrylic acid, an ionomer

How do glass ionomers differ from composite?

GI has an acid-base reaction

Composite is resin based

What can glass ionomers be used for?

restoring teeth

liner and base under restorations

permanent cement

restoration of erosion near gingiva (Class 5)

pediatric dentition restoration

What are the benefits of glass ionomers? (versatility)

Thermal expansion similar to natural tooth

High FLUORIDE release**

High compressive strength

Low thermal conductivity

Less pulpal irritation

Low solubility

Inhibits recurrent decay

What are the disadvantages of glass ionomers?

Low flexural strength

Low esthetics

Used for temporary restorations or cement, not permanent/final restoration (doesn't last forever)

Rough surface

Limited shade

Hard to recreate anatomy

What are the indications for use for glass ionomers?

Primary dentition (restorations/cement or ART or lesion specific)

Final restorations in non-stress areas (PRR or lesion specific)

Base under composites

High caries risk pt --> fluoride release (fluoride toothpaste and varnish will recharge the GI for release)

Core buildups

Longer term temporary restorations

What are compomers? Why is it not commonly used?

Hybrid of composite and glass ionomers ... releases fluoride

High recurrent caries risk

Poor handling of material

What are resin modified glass ionomers?

higher strength restoration

light cured GI

What are gionomers and its properties?

combo of GI and composite

resin based

esthetic / durable / ion

surface quality is comparable to micro-fill composite

What are Equia Forte Gionomers?

Glass hybrid

Ultrafine

High strength, bulk fill

Tougher resin matrix

What are the steps to properly place glass ionomers?

Step 1: condition tooth for 10 seconds with gentle brush and wash and gently dry (some moisture is good)

Step 2: Triturate GI 8 - 10 seconds (activate tab and rabbit setting)

Step 3: place GI into prep and fill beyond margins (within 10 seconds of trituration)

Step 4: anatomy and contour of restoration before curing (wet cotton tip, condense GI, remove excess) CURE FOR 20 SECONDS

Step 5: polish and finish restoration (will look rough and grainy, remove excess GI and flash, use finishing tools with water)

NOT THE SAME FINISH AS COMPOSITE

What pts are would benefit most from GIs?

pediatric pts

specific geriatric cases

What should you tell the parents of a pediatric pt about GI?

Explain the use of the material

Fluoride Release

"Temporary" with best results

What should you tell adult pts about GI?

Situational/Specific Use

Fluoride Release

Caries Control