The glass-ionomer phase in resin-based restorative materials

Glass-ionomer (GI) fillers are added to restorative materials, but it is unclear if they truly react with these materials. This TEM study evaluated the existence of the GI phase in a conventional GIC (ChemFlex), a resin-modified GIC (Fuji II LC), a giomer (Reactmer Paste), a compomer (Dyract AP), and a composite (SpectrumTPH), before and after water uptake. Wafers were stored at 100% RH for 24 hrs, or in water for 7 or 84 days. ChemFlex glass particles were surrounded by 300-nm-thick silica gel layers. In Fuji II LC, we found thinner hydrogel layers (100 nm) that became thicker upon water storage. No appreciable change occurred in Reactmer Paste. Only a very thin hydrogel layer occurred in Dyract AP, and none was seen in SpectrumTPH after water storage for 84 days. We conclude that the variable extent of the GI phase is determined by differences in the resin composition of the restoratives.