Resin-ionomer restorative materials for children: a review

Hybrid restorative materials comprising resins and components of conventional glass ionomers have been widely introduced and accepted by the dental profession in recent years. These include the resin-modified glass ionomer cements and the polyacidmodified resin composites or compomers. They are developed in an attempt to overcome the problems of traditional restoratives, such as moisture sensitivity and reduced early strength, while at the same time maintaining their clinical advantages of command setting, adhesion to tooth structures, adequate strength to occlusal load, fluoride release and aesthetics. This paper reviews the development, composition and properties of these new materials. Their clinical performance appears to be promising and they should be considered as good alternatives to amalgam and other conventional restorative materials in the future.