[SEM study on the finishing of glass ionomer cement filling surfaces]

The surfaces produced by different finishing techniques at two different time intervals following placement of three glass ionomer cements are compared by SEM-evaluation. All finishing procedures impaired the surface texture obtained under a matrix strip. Finishing of glass-ionomer cement restorations is best performed with flexible discs at 24 hours after placement. Initial finishing after 15 minutes using water spray is detrimental to the glass-ionomer cement surface. A useful procedure is to apply a lubricant during finishing of the cement.