Glass ionomer cements are dental materials used for bonding and filling teeth. They have a tooth-like appearance and can be used for various dental procedures. They were first released in 1972 and require a short time to set. There are six types of applications, and they can be used for both permanent and temporary restorations.
Glass ionomer cements, or GICs, are a classification of luting and filling materials that are often used in the field of dentistry. Sometimes referred to as dental cements, they can be used as a bonding agent to aid in the bonding process between teeth or as one of the fillers used in tooth repair and restoration. When applied, these cements have an appearance and color that approximate the look and shade of a tooth, making the material both practical and visually appealing.
The first of the glass ionomer cements was released in 1972. While some improvements have been made over the years, the essential components of the glass ionomer compound have remained the same. By making good use of the natural reaction between silicate glass powder and polyakleonic acid, the ionomer material can be used as dental fillings in cavities. This application saved teeth that would have been extracted in the years prior to the development and release of this material.
In general, glass ionomer cements require only a short time to set. Six to eight minutes from the time of mixing and application is usually sufficient. However, it is possible to slow the setting slightly by mixing the cement on a cold surface if more time is needed before the mixture is applied to the patient.
Over the years, numerous applications have been discovered for the use of glass ionomer cements. Normally referred to as types, these applications involve several common dental procedures. They can be used as cementitious cements (Type I), liners and bases, as well as for core build-ups in cavities (Types III and VI) and as a fissure sealant (Type IV). Overall, there are currently six distinct types of applications.
While some of the applications of glass ionomer cements are meant to be permanent, the cement can also be used for temporary applications, such as an intermediate restoration. A qualified dentist can determine when and if the use of this cement is in the patient’s best interest.
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