Recent Modifications of Glass Ionomer Cement in Pediatric Dentistry: An Update

Abstract

Glass ionomer cement (GIC) is a clinically attractive dental restorative material with wide applications in pediatric patients. GIC has numerous characteristics and the unique ones are the ability to form chemical bonds to enamel and dentin through an ion-exchange mechanism, long-term fluoride release, and the ability to reabsorb fluoride ions and act as a fluoride reservoir. Glass ionomer cement and its modifications have extensive clinical use and are widely used as filling materials, tooth repair material, cavity liner and as adhesives for artificial crowns or orthodontic brackets. Clinicians dealing with pediatric patients should be aware of newer modifications of glass ionomer cement to obtain more predictable treatment results and employ them appropriately. This comprehensive review discusses clinical applications, advantages, drawbacks, modifications, and prospects of GIC and also familiarizes practitioners with the latest recommendations regarding pediatric restorative dentistry.