Biological Effects on S-PRG: An Integrative Review

Advances in dental material science over recent decades have significantly improved the mechanical, physical, esthetic, and adhesive properties of restorative systems. As clinical performance and durability have reached high standards, research has progressively shifted from purely mechanical replacement toward the development of bioactive materials capable of interacting beneficially with biological tissues. Rather than functioning solely as passive restoratives, contemporary materials are increasingly designed to contribute to disease prevention and tissue repair. Bioactive functionality encompasses both bioprotective and biopromotive effects, including antimicrobial activity, reinforcement of the dental substrate, promotion of remineralization, modulation of inflammatory responses, and stimulation of regenerative pathways. In this context, the surface pre-reacted glass ionomer (S-PRG) particle has emerged as a multifunctional bioactive technology. Its unique three-layer structure enables sustained release of multiple ions, fluoride, strontium, boron, sodium, silicate, and aluminum, associated with mineralization, biofilm inhibition, inflammatory regulation, and activation of cellular signaling pathways. An integrative review was conducted through a literature search in PubMed, SciELO and Scopus using the descriptors "Surface-reaction-type prereacted glass ionomer" and "S-PRG." Experimental studies evaluating antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, remineralizing, cellular, or regenerative effects of S-PRG-containing materials were considered eligible. A total of 49 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed through descriptive synthesis. The available evidence indicates that the biological activity of S-PRG-containing materials extends beyond caries prevention, including modulation of inflammatory responses, enhancement of mineralization processes, and stimulation of cellular pathways related to tissue repair. These findings highlight the potential of S-PRG technology as a promising strategy for the development of restorative materials with regenerative and preventive properties.