In vitro fluoride release from a light-cured glass-ionomer liner/base

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Glass ionomer cements are widely used in dentistry.
• Understanding long-term fluoride release is crucial for assessing their therapeutic potential.
• Vitrabond Light-Cure Glass Ionomer Liner/Base is a specific dental material requiring investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the in vitro fluoride release profile of Vitrabond Light-Cure Glass Ionomer Liner/Base.
• To determine the effect of light curing and formulation variations on fluoride release.
• To assess the impact of prolonged fluoride release on the material's mechanical integrity.

Main Methods:

• In vitro fluoride ion release measurements over 740 days.
• Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) to analyze fluoride incorporation into dentin.
• Mechanical property testing of aged glass ionomer samples.

Main Results:

• Sustained fluoride ion release observed for up to 740 days.
• Fluoride release rate was independent of curing time and formulation.
• Significant fluoride incorporation into underlying dentin was detected.
• No adverse effects on mechanical properties after prolonged aging in water.

Conclusions:

• Vitrabond Light-Cure Glass Ionomer Liner/Base provides a long-term source of fluoride ions.
• Light curing does not impede the fluoride release mechanism.
• The material demonstrates stability and durability with sustained fluoride release.