An evaluation of a rapid setting glass ionomer cement used by general dental practitioners to restore deciduous teeth

Twenty-one general dental practitioners evaluated the clinical handling properties and performance of a newly formulated glass ionomer cement of the powder/water type. One hundred and eighteen restorations were placed. Sixty-nine restorations were reviewed, on average, after 6 months by 17 practitioners who completed the trial. This formulation set rapidly. Approximately 90% of the restorations that were reviewed performed well over the period of assessment. The results of the trial were compared with those of trials on earlier glass ionomer cements used to restore deciduous teeth. The main advantage of the new formulation was the improvement in handling properties.