The benefits of glass ionomer self-adhesive materials in restorative dentistry

Bonded, resin-based composite restorative materials have potential advantages. If the dentin bond achieved is not greater than the polymerization stress, loss of retention is likely, resulting in areas of microleakage and postoperative sensitivity. Class 5 lesions restored with no preparation have been used for testing the clinical performance of new adhesive restorative systems. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that bond strength varies according to the depth of dentin and the degree of calcification. Until the later generations of dentin bonding agents, retention rates for bonded, resin-based composites were typically more erratic and lower than glass ionomer (GI) and resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI) restorative materials. Providing stress relief during setting is inherent in GI and RMGI materials, which helps to explain their good retention rates, despite their low bond strengths. GI and RMGI liners and lightly filled resin bonding agents provide similar stress relief. Current evidence supports the use of both RMGI and composite restorations placed with a liner of lightly filled resin in adhesive Class 5 restorations. Bonded, resin-based composite has the advantage of finishing to a high-gloss surface, making it more acceptable in areas of the mouth that are highly visible.