Improved adhesion of a glass ionomer cement to dentin and enamel

A study has been made on improving the adhesion of a glass ionomer cement by the chemical treatment of dentin and enamel surfaces. The most effective surface conditioners were high molecular weight substances containing a multiplicity of functional groups capable of hydrogen bonding. Low molecular weight chelating agents which dissolve calciferous material and dramatically alter the surfaces of enamel and dentin are less effective.